Paying for a home
This content applies to England only.
Housing laws vary between England and Scotland. 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 our advice services directory to find a Shelter advice centre or Citizens Advice 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.
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.
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.
Rent and rent increases
Different tenancies have different rules about how much rent should be charged and when the amount can be increased.
Housing benefit and local housing allowance
Everything you need to know about housing benefit and local housing allowance.
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.
Interest rates
The threat of rising interest rates is enough to make any homeowner feel worried right now but there are things you can do to prepare.
Support for mortgage interest
Support for mortgage interest (SMI) offers help with mortgage interest for people claiming certain benefits. Find out who can claim SMI and what kind of help it offers.
Council tax
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.
Social fund 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.
Other benefits
Find out about the other welfare benefits that you may be eligible for.
Help with heating costs
Find out how to get help with your heating costs if you are elderly or on a low income.
Energy efficiency
There are many different types of grants or discounts available to help you to make your home more energy efficient. Your eligibility depends on your age, whether you receive benefits, and where you live.
Insurance
Information about the different types of policies that you may want to take out to protect your home and protect yourself from losses.
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.
Furniture projects
Local furniture projects can provide good quality second hand furniture, safety-tested appliances and other household items for people on low incomes.
Financial help if you've been in the forces
If you have been in the armed forces or your partner died as a result of their service, there may be special benefits, compensation schemes, financial help and other support available to you.
Keeping your home when in prison
Don’t assume you will automatically lose your home if you have been sent to prison or are on remand. Whether you are a tenant or a home-owner, there may be action you can take to keep your home.
