Help with housing costs and bills

Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit

If you are on a low income, Housing Benefit (Housing Allowance in some areas) and Council Tax Benefit could help towards your rent and Council Tax.

Help with mortgage interest

If you get Income Support, income-based Jobseeker's Allowance or Pension Credit you may be able to get help with your mortgage interest payments and other housing costs that are not covered by Housing Benefit.

Keeping your home warm

If you own or rent your home from a private landlord, you might be able to get help with heating or insulation (or both). For information on the schemes available in England, Scotland and Wales, see the 'Useful contacts' section.

Winter Fuel Payments

If you are aged 60 or over, you might also be able to get a Winter Fuel Payment to help with your winter heating costs.

Advice about accommodation

Whether you rent or own your home, your local council can offer advice on housing issues, including how to find temporary accommodation if the property you live in is due to be sold or you are threatened with being evicted.You can find contact details for your local council by visiting www.direct.gov.uk and in your local phone book.

You can also get free, independent advice about any housing problem from Shelter, the housing and homeless charity. Call Shelter's national housing advice helpline on 0808 800 4444, or visit
 http://www.shelter.org/.