Non-dependent deductions changes

Reductions to your Benefits - non-dependants

The amount of Benefit you receive may be reduced due to non-dependants living with you. The amount deducted is increasing from 1 April 2011 and will increase annually.

What is a non-dependant?

A non-dependant is someone who normally lives with you (other than your partner), such as an adult son, daughter, relative or friend.

How does the non-dependant changes affect me?

Deductions can be made from your Housing or Council Tax Benefit due to non-dependants living with you. For example if you have another adult living with you they will be expected to contribute to your household bills including rent and therefore we will deduct an amount (depending on their income) for that person from your Housing Benefit and / or Council Tax, therefore you will receive less benefit.

Many non-dependants have circumstances that mean there is no deduction taken.  For example: Under 18 years old, full-time Students, in receipt of Pension Credit and aged 18 or over but under 25 and receiving Income Support, or JobSeekers Allowance (Income Based).

I have a live-in carer - does this person count as a non dependant?

No.  Boarders, sub-tenants, voluntary/charitable live in carers and joint tenants are not non-dependants.

How do I know what amount of deductions will be made?

There are various bands for non-dependant deductions depending on the non-dependant's circumstances.  The increased April 2011 and April 2012 rates are available on the website.  Click here to view them.

I am disabled and live on my Disability Living Allowance.  My daughter lives with me to assist with my care.  Will a deduction be made for her?

No.  Any claimant who is receiving DLA or Severe Disability premium (higher rate) is exempt from any deduction for any non dependant.

My son is 17 and has a part time job.  Will you make a deduction for him?

No deductions are not made for anyone under 18yrs old.

My friend lives me but she is a full time student.  Will you make a deduction for her?  

No deductions are not made for full time students.

My elderly mother lives with us.  Will you make a deduction for her?

It will depend on her circumstances.  No deductions are made for anyone in receipt of Pension Credit