Hello Can you advise me? I was awarded PIP Daily Living and Enhanced Mobility In January 2019. Following the award, the DWP contacted me to say they have given me extra money because I am severely disabled, plus the disability income guarantee. I was speaking to someone and they said I should have informed housing benefit as they may owe me additional money for the changes back in Jan 2019. Currently, I pay an additional 38 pounds a week towards my rent. Is this correct? Thank you Dee
Your Local Authority should be aware of what you receive for ESA already but it can do no harm to check.
Whilst Housing Benefit is a means tested benefit the amount you are entitled to is calculated differently from your ESA. Basically you have an allowance based on your circumstances and housing needs, as long as you are entitled to Income Related ESA, which you are from your post, then you receive the full allowance, your starting to receive the premiums will not increase it.
If you are paying £38/week then this will be because your actual rent is more than the Housing Benefit payable for your property.
Gordon
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