
From April 2013 the Government is introducing a new rule for those on housing benefit; it is being referred to as the ‘Bedroom Tax’ will affect all those under the age of 62 years who are receiving housing benefit.
Under the Governments new Housing Benefit bedroom entitlement the following person or people will be entitled to 1 bedroom only;
- Single Person (Aged 16years +)
- Couple
- 2 children under the age of 10 (of a different sex)
- 2 children under the age of 16 (of the same sex)
How will this affect you?
If you are considered to be under-occupying your property, your benefit will be reduced. If you are under-occupying by 1 bedroom, the reduction will be 14% or approximately £10 – £13 per week depending if you are in a 2, 3 or 4 bedroom house. If you are under-occupying by 2 or more bedrooms then the reduction will be 25% or approximately £22 – £24 per week depending if you are in a 3 or 4 bedroom house.
If you are under-occupying you need to consider the following:
- Should you be moving to a property with fewer bedrooms?
- Can you afford to pay the shortfall between your rent and housing benefit every week?
- Consider taking in a lodger.
- Make sure you are claiming all the benefits you may be entitled to by visiting www.dircet.gov.uk and using the ‘Benefits adviser’ service.
If you decide to look to exchange your home, you may wish to send a Falcon Housing application form to us as well as registering your interest in moving on www.homefindersomerset.co.uk or www.devonhomechoice.co.uk web site. There are other national home swap agencies such as www.homeswapper.com but all will charge to use their services.
Remember if you do not pay your rent you could lose your home, so should you wish to discuss this issue further, please contact Falcon Housing on 01823 667343.