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Lone Pensioner Allowance (LPA)

The Lone Pensioner Allowance is an entitlement to a 20% reduction in rates for any pensioner in Northern Ireland who meets the criteria.

To qualify for Lone Pensioner Allowance you must :

  • be aged 70 years old or over; and
  • live alone (you may still be entitled if you live with a carer or others); and
  • pay rates.

The allowance is not means tested, which means that you do not need to provide information your income or savings to be eligible. It can also be claimed on top of any other benefits such as Housing Benefit or Rate Relief.

How to claim Lone Pensioner Allowance

If you own and occupy your home you must apply through Land & Property Services (LPS).

You must apply for the allowance in the first instance. Once the allowance has been awarded, it will be applied to you rate bill every year, so there is no need to re-apply.

To apply, you must submit an application form. You can download the form using the attached link:

You can also get a form by:

  • calling the LPS helpline on 0845 300 6360, minicom 0845 300 6361;
  • calling LPS Housing Benefit on freephone 0800 5877 477
  • E-mail: housingbenefit.rating@lpsni.gov.uk
  • fax on 028 9025 2639

Or by writing to:

Land & Property Services,
Housing Benefit Central Unit
Londonderry House
21-27 Chichester Street
T0WN PARKS
Belfast
BT1 4JB

Important Information

  • If you apply for help, you must still pay your rate bill while your application is being assessed. If your application is successful  LPS will refund the amount you have overpaid or credit the amount due to your account.
  • Any help you receive may depend on your income, savings, size of your rate bill and whether other people live with you.

Rented accommodation

If you rent your home you must apply through the Northern Ireland Housing Executive.

You can download the form using the attached link:

You can also get a form by calling NIHE on 08448 920902, or by calling into your local NIHE office. See link below for contact details: