Housing Benefit

If you’re eligible for Housing Benefit, how you claim depends on whether you get other benefits.

If you're already claiming non-pension age benefits. You’ll likely need to claim Universal Credit, which includes a Housing Element paid to you. You’re responsible for paying your rent from this or other income, if you have any.

If you claim Pension Credit then you can claim Housing Benefit. The Pension Service will share your details with your local council, but you still need to apply. Most councils let you apply online or by phone.

Only claiming Housing Benefit? Apply directly through your local council.

You’ll need proof of rent, savings, and regular payments. It's important to claim as soon as possible as delays could mean losing money or falling behind on rent.

If you’re not happy with the end decision, you can choose to formally appeal the decision. Each local authority has their own appeals procedure, so please contact them directly to find out more. 

If you feel a wrong decision has been made and you need some additional support, our financial inclusion team can help you.

Housing Benefit is usually paid directly to your landlord (Home Group). You can request to have it paid into your bank account instead, so you pay us yourself.

You’ll need to provide your bank details when claiming. If you don’t have an account, fee-free basic accounts are available from banks, building societies, and credit unions.

Payments are made every four weeks in arrears, so try to keep your account in credit. We ask customers to aim for at least one month’s credit.

Housing Benefit is based on household income, so you may have a shortfall to pay directly to Home Group. Once your award is confirmed, we’ll advise you. If you need help working this out, our Financial Inclusion Team can assist. Just contact us or your housing manager to refer you. 

If your rent or circumstances change, tell your local council housing benefit department right away. This could affect your payments, and they may ask for the letter we sent about the change.

If you receive Universal Credit, update the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) through your online account.

It’s important to report changes quickly as you can only backdate claims by one month.

If you’re working age, you can only backdate Housing Benefit by one month. Report any rent or circumstance changes immediately to avoid losing money, and keep all paperwork to prove your claim.

If you’re pension age, you can request up to three months of backdated Housing Benefit without giving a reason, as long as you were eligible during that time.

You’re still responsible for paying all rent owed to Home Group, even if your benefit is reduced. If you claim Universal Credit, update the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) through your online account.

We’ll always notify you of any changes, so you should have time to contact your local authority or DWP within the one-month window.