Rent and Credit > Navigating Rent Support Options in the UK

Navigating Rent Support Options in the UK

Wollit Team2 minute read · Updated 13th August 2025

Struggling to cover your monthly rent payments can be overwhelming, but help is available across the UK through various government support schemes. Whether you're facing temporary financial difficulties or dealing with long-term low income, understanding your options for help paying rent in the UK through housing benefit systems can provide crucial relief when you need it most.

What is Housing Benefit and Who Qualifies?

To qualify for Housing Benefit, you must meet specific criteria:

Be on a low income or receiving qualifying benefits (Income Support, Jobseeker's Allowance, Employment and Support Allowance)
Have savings under £16,000 (with savings over £6,000 affecting your payment).
Be liable for rent payments on your current home
Live in the UK and have the right to claim benefits

The amount of support varies significantly based on your personal circumstances, local rent levels, and household composition. Housing benefit eligibility criteria can be complex, so it's worth checking your specific situation carefully.

How to Apply for Housing Benefit

The process to apply for Housing Benefit depends on your location within the UK and your current benefit status. In England, Scotland, and Wales, new claimants typically need to apply through Universal Credit instead of the traditional Housing Benefit system.

You'll need to provide comprehensive documentation for your application:

Proof of identity (passport or driving licence)
Recent bank statements and payslips
Tenancy agreement or rent book
Details of all household members
Evidence of any other benefits or income

Processing times vary by council, but applications typically take 4-6 weeks to complete. During this period, you may need to continue paying your full rent.

Universal Credit Housing Element vs Traditional Housing Benefit

New claimants typically use Universal Credit. Here's the key difference:

Universal Credit:

Monthly payment to you
Combined with other benefits
Apply online

Traditional Housing Benefit:

Often paid directly to landlord
Housing costs only
Apply through local council

Key point: You can request Universal Credit payments go directly to your landlord if needed.

Additional Support Through Discretionary Housing Payments

When standard Housing Benefit or Universal Credit doesn't cover your full rent, Discretionary Housing Payment schemes provide additional help. Local councils administer these payments using limited budgets to support residents facing exceptional circumstances.

Discretionary Housing Payments can help with various situations:

Covering shortfalls between benefit amounts and actual rent costs
Assistance with rental deposits or advance payments
Support during benefit delays or appeals
Help with removal costs when moving to more affordable accommodation

Success rates vary significantly between councils, and funding is limited, so applications need to demonstrate genuine hardship. Priority often goes to vulnerable groups including families with children, disabled people, and those at risk of homelessness.

Building Financial Stability Beyond Housing Benefit

While housing support provides crucial immediate relief, building long-term financial stability requires a comprehensive approach. Improving your credit score can open doors to better housing options and financial products in the future.

Wollit’s credit builder can help you establish a positive credit history even whilst receiving benefits, creating opportunities for future financial independence and improved housing choices.