Non-Dependants

When is benefit and / or support affected by Non-Dependants?

What is a Non-Dependant?

A non dependant is someone who normally lives with the housing benefit and / or local council tax reduction scheme claimant such as an adult son, daughter, relative or friend.

Boarders, sub-tenants and joint tenants are not non-dependants because they have a legally binding and commercial agreement to pay rent.

Can Non-Dependants Claim Housing Benefit and / or Local Council Tax Reduction?

Non-dependants cannot claim housing benefit and / or local council tax reduction because they do not have a legally binding agreement to pay rent or council tax. An amount that a non dependant may pay for their keep is not considered to be "legally binding".

Does the money paid by Non-Dependants for their keep, count as income for the claimant?

No. This money is not treated as the claimant's income. Instead a fixed deduction is made from the claimant's entitlement to housing benefit and / or local council tax reduction. The amount of this deduction is dependant upon the non dependant's circumstances. Generally the more income a non dependant receives the higher the deduction.

What if the Non-Dependant pays nothing for their keep?

The amount of any deduction is based upon the non dependant's circumstances not on the amount paid. If the non dependant pays nothing, a deduction based upon their circumstances will still apply.

What are the Levels of Deduction?

The levels of deduction are shown below.

Are there any exceptions?

Yes. No deduction applies for any non-dependant if the housing benefit and / or local council tax reduction claimant or any partner is:

  • registered Blind
  • in receipt of Severe Disablement Allowance
  • in receipt of the care component of Disability Living Allowance or Attendance Allowance
  • in receipt of Exceptionally Severe Disablement Allowance

or if the non-dependant:

  • is under 18
  • is under 25 and on Income Support / Job Seekers Allowance (Income Based)
  • is on a Youth Training Scheme
  • is a full time student
  • normally lives elsewhere

 

Non Dependant Deductions 2023/24 .pdf (380.96 KB)

Further Information

For further information about non dependants please contact our benefit helpline number on 01543-464292 or alternatively email benefits@cannockchasedc.gov.uk

 

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