Quick answer: For private renters, Universal Credit rent help is based on the LHA rate for your area and the bedrooms you are allowed, not your actual rent.
Local Housing Allowance is the main reason private rent is often not covered in full. Knowing the rule before you sign helps you avoid arrears.
Key points
- LHA sets the maximum rent help for private tenants, based on your area and the number of bedrooms you are allowed.
- If your rent is higher than the LHA rate, you pay the difference from your other income.
- Check the LHA rate for your area before you agree a rent.
- If you fall short, ask your council about a Discretionary Housing Payment, which can help for a limited time.
- Talk to your landlord early if you cannot cover the shortfall.
A tip
Ask for the rent in writing and work out your shortfall before you sign.
About the video
The video at the top of this page is by Homelessness Best Practice on YouTube. We picked it because its title is "Homelessness and Universal Credit: What is the Local Housing Allowance (LHA)?". 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
- Citizens Advice: how much Universal Credit you will get
- Shelter England: Universal Credit housing element
- GOV.UK: Universal Credit
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.