How to apply for Housing Benefit, Local Housing Allowance and Council Tax Support

Please note

Since the introduction of Universal Credit, new claims for Housing Benefit or Local Housing Allowance can only be made if you are of state pension age (from 15 May 2019, both members of a couple must be of pension age) or if you live in supported accommodation.

Housing Benefit

If you live in a council or housing association property:

  • you may be eligible for Housing Benefit to help you pay your rent if you’re on a low income
  • Housing Benefit can cover part or all of your rent, depending on your income and circumstances
  • applications are open to both employed and unemployed individuals

Find out more and apply for Housing Benefit


Local Housing Allowance

If you rent privately:

  • Local Housing Allowance (LHA) is used to determine how much Housing Benefit you will receive
  • It applies to tenants moving from housing benefit to a private landlord

Find out more and apply for Local Housing Allowance


Council Tax Support

This support helps with your Council Tax bill. If you are responsible for paying Council Tax and have a low income, you can apply for Council Tax Support.

Find out more and apply for Council Tax Support


Do you need assistance applying?

For more information, visit the page to get help to make a benefit claim.


Sending us documents

Upload evidence and supporting documents online using the link provided below.

Send us documents

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