Extra Room Rate for MRC or HRC

Hi guys.

I know that this isn't a site that answers housing benefit questions, but I'm hoping that because this one is a passported benefit as a result of having MRC or HRC that someone might know a bit about it, and that the thread will be approved due to the huge lack of information out there about it.

It's only a new thing that was introduced in April 2011 and the basics of the scheme are that if you need a non-resident carer to stay with you overnight, and you are on MRC or HRC, you can claim an Extra Room Rate allowance on top of your housing benefit.

The problem is, nobody I've called knows how I can go about applying for it, what proofs are required, whether it can be backdated, whether it's taxable or even how much it is. I was just told to write a letter with as much information as possible, and they'd "look into it". That didn't inspire confidence whatsoever!

If anyone knows anything at all about the Extra Room Rate for non-resident overnight carers, would you be so kind as to impart wisdom this way?

Thanks guys.

Hi, this is the knowledge they should have!!

www.dwp.gov.uk/docs/a3-2011.pdf

•You either have to be receiving the care component of disability living allowance at the middle or higher rate, or a doctor has to certify that you have a medical need for care
•You must have a spare bedroom that can be used by the carer
•You must actually be receiving care on a regular basis.

These are the qualifiers.

Sorry, just to add;

you need to be renting privately.

Yep. I meet all the qualifiers without question. Any idea on how much it translates to in cash weekly or monthly?

Thanks.

Hi dragon, I'm afraid you would probably only find out by applying for it. However, the rates are set by area, per number of bedrooms like this;

•£250 a week for a one bedroom property (including shared accommodation)
•£290 a week for a two bedroom property
•£340 a week for a three bedroom property
•£400 a week for a four bedroom property

Could you work it out from that? It may depend on the local council you come under.

Best wishes,
Rachel