Definition of Household Members
Household members are all individuals who live together with the applicant in a residence and are economically connected. This typically includes:
- Spouse or partner
- Children living in the same household
- Other relatives who are considered part of the needs community
Individuals who reside temporarily or are economically independent (e.g., subtenants or roommates in a shared apartment) do not count as household members under housing benefit law.
Effect of Household Size on Housing Benefit Calculation
The number of household members affects both the allowable rent costs and the income limits. The larger the household, the higher the rent limits and income thresholds up to which housing benefits can be claimed. This ensures that larger households with higher living costs receive appropriate support.
Income of Household Members
The income of all household members is considered in the calculation of housing benefits. This includes salaries, pensions, and other regular income. Social benefits like child allowances are not treated as income but must be reported.
Proof of Household Size
To determine household size, relevant documents must be submitted, including:
- Registration certificates for all household members
- Birth certificates for minors
- Proof of child support payments if children do not reside permanently in the household
The housing benefit office verifies these documents to establish how many individuals belong to the household and whether they should be included in the housing benefit calculation.
Special Cases for Household Members
In certain special cases, the household size is assessed individually. This includes:
- Households with dependents or severely disabled individuals, for whom additional exemptions may be granted
- Shared households, where children alternately reside with both parents (shared parenting model)
The housing benefit office decides in such cases based on the provided documents regarding the inclusion of household members.
Changes in Household Size
If the number of household members changes during the receipt of housing benefits, for example, due to the arrival or departure of individuals, this must be reported to the housing benefit office immediately. A change in household size can affect entitlement to housing benefits and lead to a recalculation of the benefits.
Impact on Rent Tier
The permissible amount of allowable rent costs increases with the number of household members. Larger households have higher upper limits, meaning that with the same income, a higher housing benefit entitlement may exist. The housing benefit office automatically considers these factors in the calculation.