Moving out money
Question
I'm nearly 17 and I'm not having a very good time at home. I fight with my Mum all the time and it's making me really unhappy. I really want to move out. I've got a weekend job, and I work a couple of evenings after school as well. One of the girls I work with has recently moved into a new flat, and she has a spare room there. She's 20 and I get on with her really well, and the other people she lives with are quite young and fun, so I'd really like to move in with them.
I was wondering whether I would be eligible for housing benefit or anything else like that if I do move in. If not, I would be living to work. I also go to college full time, and I really want to go to uni so I don't have the option of quitting school and working full time. What options do I have?
Answer
It sounds like the problems you're having at home are really troubling you. If you need help to sort out family problems, the council or social services may be able to provide help through mediation.
If it's not possible to sort out your differences with your Mum, you need to think carefully before moving out. Make sure that you are prepared and aware of all your options. Leaving home for the first time can be a big step and you've done the right thing by getting advice first.
You ask if you would be eligible for housing benefit or any other help. Before you move out, you'll need to work out a budget. Most private landlords require a deposit and rent in advance so you'll need to plan how to pay these costs too.
Depending on your circumstances, you might be able to get a budgeting loan to help with rent in advance. If you have to move in a hurry and you've got no money, you could try applying for a crisis loan. There might also be a local rent deposit scheme that could help if you can't afford a deposit.
If you're on a low income, you may be eligible for housing benefit to help pay the rent. There are special rules about claiming housing benefit if you're under 25. The amount of housing benefit you get will usually be limited to the average amount for a single room in a shared house in your area, unless you fit into certain categories, for example, if you have a child or live with your partner.
The amount of housing benefit you get could be restricted for other reasons, for example if the rent is considered too expensive. You will have to make up the difference yourself. If you are studying on a non-advanced course, for example, for GCSEs or A-levels then you can claim housing benefit until your 19th birthday. Bear in mind that if you go to university you might no longer be able to claim housing benefit.
If the housing benefit department says you are not entitled to housing benefit you may be able to appeal against the decision.
Get advice if you're unsure about what help you will get. It is important to do this before you move out so that you know what you can afford. Your local Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) should be able to help you work out what benefits you might get and help you apply. You could also talk to your local Connexions team. Connexions provide confidential advice, support and information for 13-19 year-olds.
Updated: 18/10/2011
Question answered by Shelter
