Housing Benefit
If you're on a low income, you may be able to claim housing benefit. You don't have to be looking for work to claim it, but you may not get as much as you need to pay your rent.
What is it?
Housing Benefit is for people with a low income who have to pay rent. It is paid by your local authority regardless of whether you are available for, or in full-time work.
How much will it cover?
Although Housing Benefit is designed to pay your rent, it may not cover the full amount. If you're single and aged under 25, you can only get enough housing benefit to pay for the average-priced bedsit in your area. If the place you stay in costs more you will have to make up the difference yourself. Housing benefit doesn't cover your utility bills (fuel, water etc) either.
If you start renting a room or property from a private landlord, you'll claim local housing allowance (LHA), not housing benefit.
- You may receive less than the rent you're charged as LHA is based on the average rents in your area
- If your rent is lower than the LHA you receive, you'll be able to keep the difference, up to a maximum of £15 a week
- You'll also have to claim LHA if you started renting before 6th April 2008 and you move house or have a break in your benefit claim
These rules don't apply if you rent from the council or a registered social landlord.
When do they pay out?
Housing Benefit (and LHA) are paid in arrears, which can make things difficult if your landlord wants you to pay your rent in advance. If you are having problems talk to your local council office. The benefit is usually paid directly into your bank account but occasionally it is paid straight to your landlord.
Can I get it if I'm a student?
Most full-time students cannot claim at any time during the course, including the summer holiday, but there are exceptions. The rules about who can claim are rather complicated, so ask your council for more information.
Alternatively, if you're unsure about whether or not you're entitled to benefit, you should get in touch with a student welfare officer or your local Citizens Advice Bureau.
How do I claim?
You can claim Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit (including Second Adult Rebate) with your claim for the following benefits:
Call Jobcentre Plus on 0800 055 6688 - they will send details of your claims for Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit to your local council.
If you aren't claiming other benefits you can get a form from your local council or download one here.
How long do I have to wait?
It will depend on your local authority. They are required to deal with your claim and pay your Housing Benefit in 14 days, but it often takes longer. If you are renting privately and they take longer it is your right to have a reasonable amount of money paid until they make the decision. The only reasons the local authority can refuse this is if you didn't give them sufficient information or it is very clear that you will not be entitled the Housing Benefit.
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