Benefits you may be entitled to to help you pay your rent
If you are unemployed or have a low income you may be able to receive either Universal Credit or Housing Benefit.
Housing Benefit
If you live in temporary accommodation or if you and your partner are receiving your state pension, you may be entitled.
- Make an online claim for Housing Benefit: Link to Housing Benefit and Council Tax support application form
Universal Credit
If you are of working age and are not in temporary accommodation, you may be entitled.
- Make an online claim for Universal Credit: Link to online Universal Credit application form
Discretionary Housing Payment
If you receive either of these qualifying benefits but have a rent shortfall, you may qualify for a short term payment.
You may qualify if one of the following affects you;
- under occupancy rules
- a benefit cap
- financial hardship
This is a discretionary payment and there is no guarantee that you will be awarded the short term payment.
- Make an online claim for a Discretionary Housing Payment: Claim Online Discretionary and Exceptional Payments (New claim)