Managing housing benefits when moving to or from London requires careful planning and understanding of the specific procedures involved.
Different London boroughs have their own housing benefit systems, which can impact how claims are processed and transferred.
This quick guide explains the key steps to handle your housing benefits during a move, helping ensure continuous support during the transition.
Moving to London – First Steps
Contact your current local council to inform them about your planned move to London.
- Provide your new London address
- Share your moving date
- Request information about benefit transfer procedures
- Keep copies of all correspondence
Starting a New Claim in London
You’ll need to submit a new housing benefit claim to your London borough council.
- Proof of identity (passport or driving license)
- Proof of address (tenancy agreement)
- Income details (payslips, benefit letters)
- Bank statements
- National Insurance number
Moving Between London Boroughs
Each London borough manages housing benefits separately, requiring a new claim when moving between them.
| Current Borough | Action Required |
|---|---|
| Existing borough | Notify of moving date |
| New borough | Submit new claim immediately |
Moving Out of London
Notify your London borough council at least two weeks before moving.
- Contact your new local authority to start a claim
- Provide forwarding address to London borough
- Request final benefit payment details
- Keep evidence of your move
Common Delays and How to Avoid Them
Processing delays often occur due to incomplete documentation.
- Submit all required documents together
- Respond promptly to information requests
- Keep copies of all submissions
- Follow up weekly if no response received
Getting Help and Support
Contact details for housing benefit assistance:
- London Councils helpline: 020 7934 9999
- GOV.UK Housing Benefit
- Local Citizens Advice Bureau
- Shelter housing charity: 0808 800 4444
Next Steps for Your Move
Create a checklist of all required actions and documents for your housing benefit transfer.
- Set calendar reminders for important dates
- Organize your paperwork in advance
- Keep a log of all communications
- Save emergency contact numbers
Additional Documentation Needed
Certain situations may require extra documentation for your housing benefit claims:
- Proof of children’s residency if applicable
- Medical certificates for health-related claims
- Student status confirmation if studying
- Self-employment documentation
Timeline Expectations
Processing Times
- New claims: 2-4 weeks average
- Change of circumstances: 1-2 weeks
- Emergency applications: 24-48 hours
Special Circumstances
Some situations require additional consideration:
| Circumstance | Special Requirements |
|---|---|
| Temporary accommodation | Additional proof of necessity |
| Shared housing | Co-tenant information |
| Supported housing | Support worker statement |
Managing Your Housing Benefit Journey
Success in managing your housing benefit transfer depends on thorough preparation and timely action.
- Start the process as early as possible
- Maintain regular contact with both councils
- Keep detailed records of all interactions
- Seek professional advice if complications arise
FAQs
- How do I apply for Housing Benefits when moving to London?
Contact your new London borough’s Housing Benefit office immediately upon moving. You’ll need to submit a new claim form with proof of identity, income, rent agreement, and new address. - What happens to my Housing Benefits when I move between London boroughs?
You must inform both your old and new borough councils. Your claim will end with the old borough on your move date, and you’ll need to submit a new claim to your new borough council. - Do I need to repay Housing Benefits if I move out of London?
If you inform your London borough council promptly about your move and provide your new address, you typically won’t need to repay benefits. However, failure to notify them could result in overpayment that must be repaid. - How long before my move should I notify the council about changes to my Housing Benefits?
Notify your council at least 4 weeks before moving if possible. At minimum, inform them within one week of your move to ensure correct benefit payments. - Can I receive Housing Benefits for two properties during my move?
You may be eligible for Housing Benefit on two homes for up to 4 weeks if you’re moving within the social rented sector and have liability to pay rent on both properties. - What documentation do I need when transferring my Housing Benefits claim in London?
You’ll need your new tenancy agreement, proof of identity, proof of income, bank statements, and documentation of any changes in circumstances since your last claim. - How long will it take to process my new Housing Benefits claim when moving to London?
New claims typically take 14-30 days to process. However, you can request an interim payment if you’re experiencing financial hardship during the processing period. - Will Brexit affect my eligibility for Housing Benefits in London if I’m an EU citizen?
EU citizens with settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme can still claim Housing Benefits. Those arriving after December 31, 2020, are subject to new immigration rules. - Can I backdate my Housing Benefits claim when moving to London?
Claims can be backdated up to one month for working-age people and up to three months for pension-age people, but you must provide good reason for not claiming earlier. - What happens to my Housing Benefits if I temporarily leave London?
You can continue receiving Housing Benefits for up to 13 weeks if your absence is temporary (or up to 52 weeks in specific circumstances like hospital stays), but you must inform the council.
