If you are a private tenant on a low income you may be entitled to Local Housing Allowance (LHA).
When we assess how much you are entitled to we take into account
- your income, savings and the number of people living in your household
- if you have a partner we will include their income and savings as well when we work out any benefit entitlement. We may also take into account the income of any other adults living with you in certain circumstances
- you (and your partner) must not have more than £16k in savings or capital, unless you are getting Pension Credit (Guarantee Credit)
How to apply
You can apply online.
How much LHA will I get?
Private Tenants receive the LHA rate based on the number of rooms their family needs, not the number of rooms in the property they rent or the rent that they are charged.
The LHA rate that your housing benefit is based on will be the rate at the date when you make your claim. Your LHA rate will then be reviewed on 1 April each year and at that point your rate may go up or down.
2024-25 LHA rates for the Scottish Borders
- one room - shared bathroom and kitchen: £74.79
- one bedroom: £86.30
- two bedrooms: £115.07
- three bedrooms: £141.53
- four bedrooms: £226.68
2023-24 LHA rates for the Scottish Borders
- one room - shared bathroom and kitchen: £62.14
- one bedroom: £74.79
- two bedrooms: £97.81
- three bedrooms: £120.82
- four bedrooms: £184.11
How many rooms am I allowed?
To work out how many rooms you are allowed, use our bedroom calculator.
Other help with your rent
If your LHA doesn’t cover all your rent, you may be eligible to apply for a Discretionary Housing Payment.