If you are under 35 and renting privately, your rent help is often limited to the cost of a room in a shared house. The video explains one exemption, for people affected by domestic abuse.
Key points
- Many single renters under 35 get rent help at the shared accommodation rate, which is lower than the rate for a one-bedroom home.
- There are exceptions. Some care leavers, some people who have lived in certain hostels or supported housing for a period, and some people affected by domestic abuse may be treated differently.
- The rules change, so check the current position with Citizens Advice or the Department for Work and Pensions.
- If you think an exception applies, tell your work coach and give evidence such as a letter from your support worker.
- A room in a shared house is often priced to fit within the shared rate, which is why many move-on rooms are shared.
A tip
If you are experiencing domestic abuse, the National Domestic Abuse Helpline is free on 0808 2000 247.
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 "Universal Credit: Under 35s Domestic Abuse Exemption for LHA shared accommodation rate". 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.