Housing benefits

Housing Benefit is a state benefit designed to help you pay your rent if you are on a low income. Depending on your income and circumstances, the Council may pay up to 100% of your rent.

You can apply if you’re working or unemployed. If you live with a partner, only one of you can claim Housing Benefit.

How much you get depends on:

- whether you have a partner

- your income from working, and from things like benefits and pensions

- any savings or investments you have

- the circumstances of other people living with you (for example their age and income)

- the number of bedrooms you need if you rent from a Housing Association

- Local Housing Allowance rules if you rent from a private landlord.

Make a benefit claim
See if you qualify, and make a claim.
Backdating your claim
Backdating is sometimes possible but it can only be done in limited circumstances.
Appeal against a decision
If you disagree with our decision on Housing Benefit you should get in touch with us within one month.
The benefit cap
There is a limit on the total amount of benefit that most working age people can get. This is called the benefit cap.
Temporary absence from home
Housing Benefit can still be paid in certain circumstances if you’re absent from your home on a temporary basis.
Local Housing Allowance
Local Housing Allowance is a way of working out claims for Housing Benefit for tenants renting accommodation from a private landlord.

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Housing benefits

Contact us: Benefits and grants