Dealing with a housing benefit shortfall

This content applies to England only.

Housing laws vary between England and Scotland. Get advice relating to Scotland

Dealing with a housing benefit shortfall is an issue that many people are facing due to recent changes to housing benefit. If you are dealing with a housing benefit shortfall here are a number of things that you can do.

  • negotiate with your landlord to see if your landlord will agree a cheaper rent or will accept delayed payment of any rent arrears you owe
  • apply for discretionary housing payment to make up the shortfall
  • look at your budget –  can you find ways to increase your income or decrease your costs?
  • seek debt advice about how you could make up any shortfall
  • ask people who live with you if they can increase their contribution to the household budget to help you pay the rent.

If you have to move to avoid rent arrears, you'll need to look for a more affordable property, possibly in a cheaper area, and could:

If you need more help, contact a housing, benefits or debt adviser. Contact a Shelter advice centre, Citizen's Advice bureau or independent advice centre or a housing adviser at your council – use our directory to find an adviser in your area who may be able to help.


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