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Guide to Housing Benefit

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Part 1 of 5 in this guide.

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Last updated: 13th May 2011

Introduction

If you're on a low income and need help to pay all or part of your rent, you could get Housing Benefit. You could qualify if you’re in or out of work. Housing Benefit won't affect any other benefits you get.

Can I get Housing Benefit?

You may get Housing Benefit if you pay rent and your income and capital are below a certain level. Whether you qualify depends on your finances, where you live and how much your rent is. It also depends on your circumstances, eg your age and the size of your family, and your home, eg its size and whether the rent is reasonable.

Check if you qualify by contacting your local council

You can't usually get Housing Benefit if:

  • you have savings of over £16,000 (unless you are getting the 'guarantee credit' of Pension Credit)
  • you live in the home of a close relative
  • you're a full-time student (unless you're disabled or have children)
  • you're an asylum seeker or are sponsored to be in the UK

If you live with a partner only one of you can get Housing Benefit.

If you’re single and under 25 you can only get Housing Benefit for a bedsit or 1 room in shared accommodation.

Part 1 of 5 in this guide

Next →

  1. 1

    Can I get Housing Benefit?

    Whether you qualify depends on your finances, where you live and how much your rent is.

  2. 2

    How much Housing Benefit can I get?

    Payments depend on whether you're in social housing or rent privately.

  3. 3

    How do I claim Housing Benefit?

    You claim via Jobcentre Plus, the Pension Service or by filling in a claim form.

  4. 4

    I’m earning more, can I still get Housing Benefit?

    You may still get Housing Benefit if you’re earning more, or if you go back to work.

  5. 5

    Glossary - Housing Benefit

    A glossary of terms about Housing Benefit
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