Paying for a home

This content applies to England only.

Housing laws vary between England and Scotland. This page applies to England only. Get advice relating to Scotland

For many people, housing problems begin because of financial difficulties. If you don't have much money it can be difficult to find a decent home and if you can't pay the rent or mortgage you could face eviction.

Whatever your situation, you should get advice immediately if you are having problems paying for your accommodation. Being threatened with eviction doesn't necessarily mean that you will lose your home - it may be possible to sort things out, even if the bailiffs are on the way. But you need to act quickly. Contact the National Debtline or use the Advice Services Directory to find a housing aid centre or citizens advice bureau in your area.

Working out a budget

Work out a budget to make sure you'll be able to afford all those things you may well take for granted, such as hot water, food and the TV licence, as well as the rent or mortgage. Read more 

Tenancy deposits

Most private landlords ask for a deposit before you move in. Find out what this covers, how to ensure you get it back and where to get help if you can't afford it. Read more 

Rent in advance

Most landlords ask new tenants to pay a month's rent in advance. If you can't afford it you may be able to apply for an interest-free loan from the social fund. Read more 

Rent and rent increases

Different tenancies have different rules about how much rent should be charged and when the amount can be increased. Read more 

Rent arrears

You need to take action quickly if you've got rent arrears - regardless of the reason. Read more 

Mortgages

Explains how mortgages work and what to do if you have arrears or are worried about an endowment shortfall. Don't put your home at risk. Read more 

Mortgage arrears

If you're struggling to pay your mortgage, you need to act quickly. Don't put your home at risk. Read more 

Housing benefit

Tenants who have a low income, or are claiming benefits, may be entitled to housing benefit or local housing allowance. Read more 

Council tax benefit

Council tax benefit is paid to help people pay their council tax. This page explains more about what it is, what it covers, and who can claim it. Read more 

Income support mortgage interest

You may be able to get income support mortgage interest (ISMI) to help pay the interest on your mortgage, or on loans that you have taken out for repairs or improvements. Read more 

Other benefits

Find out about the other welfare benefits that you may be eligible for. Read more 

Grants and loans

Find out about furniture projects, grants and loans, which could help you pay for essential things that you can't afford from your regular income. Read more 

Care and support costs

There are many ways that you can receive care and support: living in your own home, in sheltered accommodation, or in a care home. This section looks at how to pay for care and support, and what help is available. Read more 

Furniture projects

Local furniture projects can provide good quality second hand furniture, safety-tested appliances and other household items for people on low incomes. Read more 

Dealing with debt

It's easy to slip into debt, and it's very important to take action as soon as possible. Read more