Help with rent

If you live in rented accommodation and are liable to pay rent, then your Universal Credit award can include a Housing Costs Element.

The amount of the Housing Costs Element included in your assessment of Universal Credit may not cover your full rent.

It may be reduced due to ineligible service charges, an under-occupancy (Bedroom Tax) reduction / Local Housing Allowance or a Housing Costs Contribution (non-dependant deduction).

You can’t get a Housing Costs Element for:

  • Extra you pay your landlord if you’re behind on your rent on your current or previous home
  • A mortgage
  • A care home
  • Ground rent

How Much

How much rent could you get with paying your rent.

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Bedroom Tax / LHA reduction

The number of bedrooms you are deemed to need can affect the amount of your Housing Costs Element.

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Non-dependent deductions

Your Housing Costs Element may be reduced if you have a non-dependant living with you.

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Living in Supported Housing

The rules can be different for some people living in Supported Housing.

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What if I get behind with my rent?

The DWP may agree to pay part of your Universal Credit award directly to your landlord.

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Housing Payments / Discretionary Housing Payments

If you need extra help to make sure you can pay your rent.

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