Housing Benefit

Making a claim for housing benefit

Housing Benefit

Most people now have to claim Universal Credit for help with their rent. Remember that you may lose money if you delay claiming Universal Credit

  • You can only claim Housing Benefit if: 
  • You and your partner, if you have one, have reached State Pension age 
  • You receive Pension Credit
  • You are living in what is referred to as 'temporary accommodation or 'specified accommodation'

There are a few other situations in which you can claim Housing Benefit but the rules are complicated. The online form will indicate if you are eligible to claim Housing Benefit or have to claim Universal Credit for help with your rent (housing costs).​

Check whether you can claim Housing Benefit

The online form is available from 8am to 8pm.

Make a claim for Housing Benefit

If you are liable for Council Tax this form will cover an application for both Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reduction.

Read the Direction of the Chief Executive (PDF)​ for further information about making a claim electronically.​