Non Dependant Deductions
What is a Non-Dependant?
A non-dependant is someone who normally lives with the Housing
Benefit/Council Tax Benefit claimant such as an adult son,
daughter, relative or friend. Boarders, sub-tenants and joint
tenants are NOT non-dependants.
Does the money paid by Non-Dependants for their keep, count
as income for the person claiming Housing Benefit/Council Tax
Benefit?
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/Council Tax Benefit based on the non-dependant's
GROSS weekly income.
Are there any exceptions?
Yes. A deduction does not apply for any non-dependant if the
Housing Benefit/Council Tax Benefit claimant or partner is:
* registered blind
* in receipt of Severe Disablement
Allowance
* in receipt of Disability Living Allowance
(Care component)
* in receipt of Attendance Allowance
or if the non-dependant:
* is under 18
* is under 25 and on Income Support / JSA
(Income Based) (Housing Benefit)
* is in receipt of Income Support / JSA (Council
Tax Benefit)
* is on a youth training scheme
* is a full time student
* normally lives elsewhere
This information is for guidance only. It does not cover
all the rules for all the benefits for every situation, nor does it
provide a full interpretation of the rules. It should not be
treated as a complete and authoritative statement of the
law.