Local Housing Allowance (LHA) is paid directly to the tenant, not to the landlord. It is up to the tenant to make sure that the rent is paid to the landlord. This means that:
In some circumstances we can pay the landlord directly with the agreement of the tenant. The section below tells you about this. We will only pay the landlord the contractual rent, if the LHA is higher then we will pay you the difference and you need to make arrangements with us to receive this.
Direct Payment to Tenants
The easiest way for tenants to receive their LHA is straight into their bank account. This means that benefit is received on the day that it is due and tenants can set up a standing order or direct debit to pay their rent.
If you would like to arrange for LHA to be paid into a bank account, please contact the Benefits Service on (01483) 444884. View bank account arrangements.
LHA cannot be paid into a Post Office Card Account like some other benefits. You will need to have an account with a high street bank. The Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) (www.guildfordcab.org.uk) provide a specialist money advice service for tenants affected by LHA. They can be contacted on (01483) 5776699 for advice on:
Direct Payments to Landlords
We will be able to pay landlords directly if the tenant is:
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Vulnerable and cannot manage their financial affairs
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Unlikely to pay their rent and have previously been in arrears
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Have rent arrears of 8 weeks or more
Vulnerability
We can make a decision to pay the landlord where someone is vulnerable. If the tenant is in arrears we need evidence of the amount to pay the landlord. There are many reasons why someone cannot manage their money, and paying the landlord may only be a short term arrangement.