PIP award and housing benefit cap

Hi all, I'm a bit confused about the effect PIP has on housing benefit. So, I'm in a receipt of HB and waiting for a decision on PIP. Hypothetically, if I'm awarded the higher component in both groups in PIP will my housing benefit cover the whole rent amount on a 2 bedroom flat even though as a single over 35 person I'm only entitled to 1 bedroom flat?

Hi Gramburgs,

Just to add to what Catherine said, I live in London. I receive PIP and ESA IR.

Regarding HB, I was awarded the 1 bedroom rate (LHA). My place had 2 bedrooms. The 2nd bedroom was used for my informal carers who provided overnight care. That showed the council the 2nd bedroom is not sitting empty and is being used by people who provide care.

The difference between the rent and LHA was around £76 per week. Based on what money was left from ESA and PIP after disability related expenditure, bills etc - I was able to apply for Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP). It’s not a long term payment. I was awarded it for year and a half due to the cuts in council budgets. Plus, DHP is not a long term solution and I was asked to look for a cheaper place. However, that respite from being left with nothing was great.

You could try looking on your council’s website under benefits if they do DHP and perhaps speak to the benefits section, if you are able to do so, to see if you can make an application. You will need to provide bank statements, receipts of extra expenditure to qualify.

I hope that helps (at least for short term).

Best wishes,

Josh

Hi. Getting PIP will not affect other benefits unless you are getting [for example] OLD ESA(IR) when you will get Severe Disability Premium if you are awarded PIP Standard Rate Care (or above) and live alone.

Getting PIP will not affect Housing Benefit as it is not counted as income.
If you choose to pay for your ‘extra’ room out of PIP, that is entirely your decision. If it’s too much money, you will have to move to a one bed