Non-dependant charges affect tenants, including pensioners, who claim benefits and live with someone other than their partner who is over 18.

Housing benefit for these tenants has been reduced from April 2011.

This is designed to reflect the contributions the person over 18 should make to household expenses.

For advice on whether this may affect you if you decide to take in a lodger, please contact us.

Benefits hotline

If you have any questions about the changes or want to discuss your options, call our Welfare Reform Taskforce onĀ 020 8359 2442.