An introduction to Housing Benefit

Updated: 03 Feb 2012
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You don't need to be unemployed to claim Housing Benefit
A young farmer
Housing Benefit is a social security benefit paid by the Housing Executive. It helps people on a low income pay their rent and rates. You do not need to be unemployed to get Housing Benefit.

Who can claim Housing Benefit?

Anyone who has to pay rent or rates for their home can claim. It does not matter if your landlord is:
  • the Housing Executive
  • a housing association  
  • a private landlord.
You can also claim if you:
  • live in a hostel
  • live in bed and breakfast accommodation
  • are a boarder or lodger.

How do I qualify for Housing Benefit?

If you or your partner are private tenants, your "eligible rent" in your Housing Benefit calculation will be decided using the Local Housing Allowance (LHA). You should read the working out your LHA page on this website to decide which Local Housing Allowance rate applies to you before you use the Housing Benefit calculator.
If you think that you might be entitled to Housing Benefit you will need to apply  by filling in a claim form.
To qualify for Housing Benefit you must have a responsibility to pay rent and/or rates for a property that you occupy as your main home. If this is the case, we will then compare your incomes with the amount that the government says you need to live on to decide how much Housing Benefit you may be entitled to.

How do I claim Housing Benefit?

You must complete a claim form. If you think you are eligible, please visit the apply now section of the site to obtain an application form.

Are there exceptions?

There are some circumstances where you may not qualify for an award of Housing Benefit. More details are available in the advice section.
For example, you may not qualify if:
  • your capital exceeds £16,000
  • you live with a close relative.

Owner occupiers

If you own your own property and need help with your rates only, you must apply to the Land and Property Service (formerly the RCA), not the Housing Executive.

Landlords

If you would like to find out more about renting your property to someone who receives Housing Benefit, please read our advice for landlords.

Local Housing Allowance

Local Housing Allowance (LHA) is a new rent assessment scheme for tenants who rent accommodation from private landlords. If you rent privately then please visit our section on Local Housing Allowance to find out how to apply and what the current rates are.

Further information

Please note that all the information in this section is for general advice only. We recommend that you complete and send in a Housing Benefit application form in all cases, to allow us to fully consider your circumstances and make a decision.