Apply for help to pay your rent
If you are not working, or are on a low income, there are benefits you could get to help with the costs of where you live.
Apply for housing benefit
You can only make a new claim for housing benefit if either of the following apply:
- you live in supported, sheltered or temporary housing (ie a hostel or temporary accommodation provided by the council )
- you have reached State Pension age
Housing benefit is being replaced by Universal Credit. Therefore, if you are not eligible for Housing Benefit you should apply for Universal Credit instead.
Extra help to pay your housing costs
Discretionary help
If you already claim housing benefit or Universal Credit but need extra help to pay your rent or Council Tax, you can apply for a discretionary award or discretionary housing payment.
If your application is successful, you will receive extra money towards rent or Council Tax.
Council Tax Reduction
If you are unemployed or on a low income, you may be eligible for money off your Council Tax.
You can make a claim for housing benefit and Council Tax Reduction at the same time or separately.