Non-dependants are usually adult sons, daughters, other relatives or friends who live in the claimant’s household on a non-commercial basis. Some non-dependants contribute towards the household bills but this money is not counted as the claimant’s income. Instead there are fixed deductions made from Housing and Council Tax Benefit which are not related to the amount the non-dependant pays.
The amounts are set by the government and apply even if the non-dependant pays the claimant no money at all. The fixed amounts depend on the non-dependant's circumstances, e.g. if they receive certain benefits or if they do not work. If the non-dependant is working, the deductions depend on the level of their gross income.
Non-dependant Couples
In the case of a non-dependant couple only one deduction would apply. This would be the highest deduction that would have been applied to them as individuals. If one or both members of the couple are working the gross income is treated as belonging to them as a couple.
Delayed effect of non-dependant changes for people aged 65 or more
If a non-dependant moves in or has a change in their circumstances, the resulting change to Housing and/or Council Tax Benefit entitlement is delayed for 26 weeks, where the claimant or partner is aged 65 or more. However, you are still required to notify any non-dependant changes as soon as they occur.
TO VIEW THE CURRENT RATES OF NON-DEPENDANT DEDUCTIONS PLEASE CLICK ON THE LINK:
Boarders and Sub-tenants
If someone other than a non-dependant pays rent for part of your property they are classed as a sub-tenant and if that rent includes money for meals they are classed as a boarder.
If you have a boarder or sub-tenant they are treated differently for Housing and Council Tax Benefit purposes. Instead of taking a set deduction from your benefit for them, part of the rental income you actually receive is taken into account.
