This page explains how we typically manage payment to homestay hosts. It also covers some other things related to money that we advise hosts consider before accepting students. It is written for those in the UK only. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions. Payments to Hosts Hosting students is extremely rewarding. However, it is also a skilled and sometimes challenging job. We pay hosts for their services and understand that this is as important as any other aspect of our support. How we manage payments ▼ The amount we pay changes from project to project and depending on location. As such, we do not publish our payment amounts online. However, we will always provide these details in response to specific enquiries. For those providing short term hosting lasting up to two weeks, payments will usually be paid in full in advance For those hosting for longer periods, the first two weeks will be paid in advance. Thereafter, payments are usually made monthly. Payments will be made by BACS transfer directly into you bank account. You will be asked to provide us with your details during your home visit. Payments for relief hosting are usually made as soon as possible after students return to their usual address. However, alternative arrangements are sometimes necessary and will be discussed on a case by case basis. In the case of long-term hosting, should a student leave your home unexpectedly payments will be made for 7 night after the student gives notice, or up to the date they leave, whichever is the longer Less ▲ Other Financial Matters In addition to payments we advise hosts to take responsibility for checking a number of other things related to finance. This includes matters such as tax, insurance and tenancy. Some things to consider ▼ Tax and the Rent a Room Scheme Payments from hosting a student count as income and hosts are responsible accounting for this with HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC). However, the government provides a tax free allowance (currently £7500) for people who have paying guests in their home. This is called the Rent a Room Scheme. Insurance You are not responsible for insuring the student’s personal belongings and we advise them to obtain separate travel insurance. However, you should check that your household insurance policy covers you for damaged caused by paying guests. Unfortunately, we are not able to cover the cost of this. Home Ownership & Tenancy If you rent your home it is important that you check your tenancy agreement to establish whether or not you have the right to host a paying guest. If you are unsure, we ask that you agree this with your landlord. If you own your home, but have a mortgage, it will usually be ok to host a paying guest. However, you may wish to double check the conditions of the mortgage if you have any doubts. In both of these scenarios we will assume you have established your right to host before agreeing to accept a student. Less ▲
