It is easy to get confused about which benefit helps with rent. The short version is below, with a reminder to check with your landlord.
Key points
- For most working-age people, help with rent now comes through the housing element of Universal Credit.
- The housing element works out similarly to Housing Benefit but is not the same thing.
- Some types of accommodation, including some supported housing and temporary accommodation, may still use Housing Benefit.
- If you are not sure which benefit to claim, ask your landlord or housing provider.
- Make sure your rent amount and landlord details are correct on your claim.
A tip
Ask your support worker or landlord for a letter confirming your rent and any service charges. It can help with the claim.
About the video
The video at the top of this page is by Afforda on YouTube. We picked it because its title is "Housing Benefit Explained | Now Part of Universal Credit | Afforda". We did not make it, and rules and amounts change, so use the official links at the bottom of this page to check the details for your situation.
Sources and official help
This guide is general information, not legal or benefits advice. Rules and amounts change, so check the official links above or speak to Citizens Advice or your council before you make a decision.