HI Just a query a couple living in thier own home accepted a house from a Housing Assocation. Their own home is on the market but it is not sold yet. She will not move beacause she says she needs to sell the house first because she will then lose benefit, as her house will be seen as captial even though it is on the market hence losing Pension Credit. But then she is responsable to pay the rent on the H.A property and it could take a while to sell. Surely she can still get benefit if they move in and thier house is not sold?

The value of a property not being used as the main residence is ignored for up to 6 months if the intention is to sell it, and steps have been taken to place it on the market - ie, registered with an estate agent etc.

additionally - what rate of PC is she on - if guarenteed PC, did the original award letter state whether it was subject to an AIP - if so, I believe that changes of circumstances that occur after the award are ignored until the end date - winning the lottery and selling a property come under that heading ....?