HRA Rules 2026 for Working Couples: Can Both Claim? (Govt Order)

HRA Rules 2026 for Working Couples: Can Husband & Wife Both Claim?

Updated: 24 January 2026 | Authority: MoF O.M. No. 2/5/2017-E.II(B)

With more double-income families in the Central Government, the House Rent Allowance (HRA) rules often cause confusion. Can both draw HRA? What happens if one gets a quarter? The rules depend entirely on your Accommodation Type.

Scenario 1: Living in Rented / Own House

If both husband and wife are Central Govt employees (or one is PSU/Bank/State Govt) posted at the same station:

• Living in Rented House: BOTH are eligible for HRA.
• Living in Own House: BOTH are eligible for HRA.

Condition: You must not be occupying any government accommodation.

Scenario 2: Living in Govt Quarter (The Trap)

This is where most employees face recovery. If ONE spouse is allotted a Government Quarter (General Pool Residential Accommodation – GPRA):

• Allottee Spouse: HRA Stops (License Fee deducted).
• Non-Allottee Spouse: HRA STOPS.

Rule: HRA is not admissible to an employee if their spouse has been allotted accommodation at the same station (whether by Central Govt, State Govt, or PSU) and they reside in it.

Scenario 3: Different Stations

If husband and wife are posted at different stations (e.g., Delhi and Jaipur):

• Husband (Delhi): Allotted Govt Quarter. HRA Stops.
• Wife (Jaipur): Living in rented house. HRA ADMISSIBLE.

Reason: Since they are compelled to live separately due to duty, the “Same Station” restriction does not apply.