Lone Pensioner Allowance
The Lone Pensioner Allowance (LPA) allows a 20 per cent discount on rates. Tenants and homeowners who are aged 70 and over and live alone can apply. There are some exceptions for ratepayers who do not live alone. It is not means tested so will not affect your security benefits.
Qualifying for Lone Pensioner Allowance (LPA)
If you are 70 or over and live alone
To qualify for LPA, you must be aged 70 or over and live alone. If you are eligible you can make an application at any time during the rating year.
If you are 70 or over and don't live alone
If you are aged 70 or over and don’t live alone you may be entitled to LPA if you:
- live with a carer who is not your spouse or partner
- provide care for someone who lives with you who is not your spouse or partner
- live with anyone who is under the age of 18
- live with someone who has a severe mental impairment like dementia, Alzheimer's, or Parkinsons. This includes your spouse or partner
LPA for homeowners
Homeowners can apply for LPA through Land & Property Services (LPS). To apply you must fill in an application form.
You will need your National Insurance Number to apply for LPA.
You must sign the form and send any supporting documents to the address shown on the form.
LPA for tenants
Tenants can apply for LPA through the Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE). To apply you can:
- download NIHE LPA application form
- telephone 03448 920 902
If you're deaf, hard of hearing or speech impaired, you can:
- download Relay UK text service app
- text 18001 03448 920 902
More details on how to claim the Lone Pensioner Allowance can be found on the NIHE website
Paying your rates
If you apply for LPA, you must continue to pay your rate bill until LPS make a decision about your application. If your application is successful, LPS will refund the amount you have overpaid or credit the amount due to your account.
A ratepayer can be awarded LPA along with Disabled Persons Allowance and Housing Benefit/ Rate Relief. Any award of LPA should not affect your entitlement to social security benefits.
If you want more information visit Help paying your rates.
Contact LPA team
- online: contact form
- email: applicationbased.raterelief@finance-ni.gov.uk
- telephone: 0300 200 7801
- text relay: 18001 0300 200 7801
- by writing to:
Land & Property Services
Lone Pensioner Allowance
Lanyon Plaza
7 Lanyon Place
Town Parks
Belfast
BT1 3LP