Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit

What are they?

Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit can help towards your rent and Council Tax. Your local authority pays them. You do not have to be receiving any other benefits to qualify for Housing Benefit or Council Tax Benefit.

Housing Benefit does not cover all your housing costs.

Are they for me?

If you are on a low income and need help to pay your rent or Council Tax, Housing Benefit or Council Tax Benefit could help you.

What are the benefit rates?

The maximum Housing Benefit you can get depends on your eligible rent. This may not be the same as your full rent.

What do I need to do next?

If you claim Income Support, Employment and Support Allowance or Jobseeker's Allowance, you will also get a Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit claim form. Fill the claim form in and send it to your local authority.

If you do not claim Income Support, Employment and Support Allowance or Jobseeker's Allowance, but think you may be entitled to Housing Benefit or Council Tax Benefit, you can get a form from your local authority.

You can find the address of your local authority in the business numbers section of the phone book.

More information about Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit