This video is from nidirect, the Northern Ireland government site. The rules for the Universal Credit housing element differ a little from England, so use the local sources.
Key points
- The housing element helps with rent and some service charges. It does not cover utilities such as gas and electricity.
- Your online account statement shows how much you are getting for rent each month.
- If your rent goes up, report it through your journal.
- If your home is bigger than the rules allow, the amount can be reduced.
- Universal Credit may not cover all your rent, so work out any shortfall and pay it.
A tip
Housing Rights Northern Ireland offers free advice if you are struggling to pay rent.
About the video
The video at the top of this page is by nidirect on YouTube. We picked it because its title is "Universal Credit explained - Claiming help towards housing costs". 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
- nidirect: Universal Credit payments for housing
- Housing Rights: claiming Universal Credit
- 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.