What is a Non-Dependant Deduction?

People living in the household who are not the partner or a dependant child of the claimant or partner are known as 'non-dependants'.  Except in certain circumstances such as, where the claimant is registered blind, a deduction is made in the benefit calculation to recognise the contribution 'non-dependants' should be making to household expenses which includes the rent.  The amount of the deduction varies dependant on the gross income of the non dependant.

A crucial point is what constitutes a 'household'. Special rules deal with boarders, sub tenants and people living in the same property, but who pay rent separately.