What is Housing Benefit?

 

Housing Benefit is a means tested benefit paid by Local Authorities to help people on low incomes to meet the cost of rented accommodation.

An award of HB helps the claimant pay the rent for the property occupied by their family. The calculation takes into account the circumstances of the claimant, their partner (if they have one), their dependant children (if they have any) and any 'non-dependants' that live with them.

To claim Housing Benefit:

  •  The claimant (and their partner) must meet the long list of qualifying conditions, eg have joint savings below £16,000, and
  • The claimant (or their partner) must be liable to pay rent on a property.
  •  The claimant must occupy that property as their home.

If you need further advice you can:

  • use an online benefits calculator such as that on the Directgov website
  • find out about a range of money, tax and benefits information from the Directgov website

If you are struggling to pay your own rent, you may be eligible for Housing Benefit. Please contact the Income Team on 0330 175 9540 and your Income Officer will be able to advise and assist you in making a claim for Housing Benefit.

If you are concerned about your finances or paying your rent get in touch with our team on 0330 175 9540.

You can also visit the Money advice service website for help, advice and a personalised action plan https://www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk/mntdemo