Get help with rent
You could get help with rent or other costs so that you have more money for rent.
You can also get help with the costs of starting a new tenancy. For example, rent in advance or a deposit.
Table: Overview of help
| Type of help and how to apply | Who can apply for help |
|---|---|
| Universal credit (UC) - Apply on GOV.UK | People on a low income |
| Discretionary housing payments (DHP) - Apply at your council | Renters who get UC or housing benefit |
| Household support fund - Apply at your council | People who cannot afford food, energy bills or other important items |
Universal credit
You can usually claim universal credit if you have a low income. UC can help with rent.
You normally wait at least 5 weeks for your first payment.
You could get a universal credit advance. This is a DWP loan that you have to pay back. Your UC payments are lower while you pay it back.
You can get housing benefit to help with rent if you live in a hostel, refuge or some supported or temporary housing. You can get UC for your other living costs.
Use the entitledto benefits calculator to check what benefits you can get.
Discretionary housing payments (DHP)
A DHP is money from your council to help with rent.
You apply for a DHP at your council. You need to be getting housing benefit or the housing element of universal credit to get a DHP.
You do not have to pay a DHP back.
Easy read advice if you have a learning disability
Mencap has easy read advice on DHPs.
Household support fund
You could get help with other living costs from your council's household support fund.
The household support fund can help with things like:
energy bills
water bills
food
This can help free up more of your other income for rent.
Ask your council about help from the scheme.
Grants from charities
Some charities have grants if you are struggling. You do not have to pay these back.
Use the Turn2us grant search tool to find out if you can get help. Add more details on the 2nd page such as your occupation or health issues to find more grants.
Avoid payday loans and doorstep lenders
These loans are expensive and often make your debt worse.
Find out about emergency grants, loans and money help if you cannot afford things like rent, food or energy bills.
Rent increases
Find out what to do if your private landlord wants to increase your rent.
Missed or late rent payments
Unpaid rent puts you at risk of eviction.
Missed or late rent payments are called rent arrears.
Find out about:
Last updated: 8 August 2024
