HBHousing Benefit
Help with rent for people on low income.
Varies by area
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Housing Benefits in the UK
If you are struggling with rent, Council Tax, or other housing costs, you may be eligible for financial support. Housing benefits can help cover the cost of renting a home, reduce your Council Tax bill, or provide additional help if your other benefits do not fully cover your housing costs. For most working-age people making new claims, help with housing costs is now provided through the housing element of Universal Credit rather than Housing Benefit. However, Housing Benefit is still available for certain groups, including people over State Pension age and those in supported accommodation. Council Tax Reduction is administered by your local council and can reduce your Council Tax bill by up to 100%.
Housing Benefits
3 benefits in this category. Amounts shown are current 2025/26 rates and represent the maximum you could receive if your application is successful.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still claim Housing Benefit?
Housing Benefit is being gradually replaced by the housing element of Universal Credit for most working-age claimants. However, you may still be able to claim Housing Benefit if you are over State Pension age, living in supported or temporary accommodation, or already receiving Housing Benefit and have not yet been migrated to Universal Credit. If you are making a new claim and are of working age, you would typically need to claim Universal Credit instead, which can include a housing element.
How much help with rent could I get?
The amount of help you could receive depends on several factors, including your income, savings, household size, and the area you live in. For private renters, the Local Housing Allowance (LHA) rate sets the maximum amount payable, based on the number of bedrooms you need and local rent levels. You could receive up to the full amount of your eligible rent if you are on a very low income. A benefits check can help estimate what you might be entitled to.
What is Council Tax Reduction?
Council Tax Reduction (sometimes called Council Tax Support) is a discount on your Council Tax bill. The scheme is administered by your local council, so the eligibility criteria and the amount of help available can vary depending on where you live. In many areas, you could receive a reduction of up to 100% if you are on a low income or receiving certain benefits. People over State Pension age have a nationally set minimum level of support.
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Benefits often work together. You may be eligible for support across multiple categories.
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Important: Benefits Robin is not affiliated with the DWP or UK Government. We provide information and assistance, not legal or financial advice. These are estimates based on your answers. Final decisions are made by the DWP.