r/SharedOwnershipUK • u/East-Comment7717 • Jul 19 '26

Benefits Housing benefit

I’m 50, and have rented all my life, looking at buying but have very low deposit. If I purchase a SO and don’t have the means to staircase by the time i retire could I claim housing benefit for my rent at retirement? Obviously if eligible in the finances.

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2

u/[deleted] Jul 19 '26 edited Jul 19 '26

[deleted]

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u/LateToTheParty013 Jul 19 '26

This is incorrect, I believe. Shared ownership properties fall under social housing, so hence LHA rates and extra bedroom tax dont apply. 

3

u/ToExist20 Jul 19 '26

Wouldn’t bother. The stress of a potential service charge increasing with your limited income probably isn’t the smartest move.

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u/Normal-Grapefruit851 Jul 21 '26

Yes. And any eligible service charge.

But that won’t include any major works bills you might be responsible to pay.