Application for Direct Payments of Local Housing Allowance to your Landlord


What is this form for?
The Benefits Service has to make all payments of Local Housing Allowance (LHA) directly to you, but we can make payments directly to your landlord where you have difficulty managing your affairs.

The information you provide in the form will help the Benefits Service decide whether it is appropriate to pay LHA directly to your landlord. You may not need to complete all of the questions, as each case will be different, but try to give as much information and evidence as possible.

Complete the Financial Assessment form if you have multiple debts and would like us to consider this when making our decision or if you would like us to put you in touch with the CAB. You can contact the CAB Money Advice Service directly on (0845 1202959). We may also use the information you provide to put you in touch with other Council Services who may be able to offer additional support.

Who should complete this form?

This form should be completed by the tenant, but it can also be completed on behalf of the tenant by:
  • Family or friends
  • Main carer
  • An advice or welfare agency
  • The landlord or letting agent
  • Another service within the council

The tenant must always sign the form, and be fully aware that it may lead to their benefit being paid directly to the Landlord.

What should be sent with this form?

Written evidence needs to be provided to support the evidence given in this form. This can be from various sources depending on a person’s individual circumstances, for example:
  • The tenant’s family or friends
  • The landlord
  • General Practitioner (GP)
  • Probation Officer
  • Social Worker
  • Main Carer
  • Welfare Groups
  • Department of Work & Pensions

Please note this list is not exhaustive. Refer to the guidance notes for further advice.

Download an application form here
Financial Assessment form