Help Paying Rent: Universal Credit, Housing Benefit & Other Support Explained

India Forgrave
Financial Content Specialist at Suits Me
Updated 7th October 2026.

Rent is a big chunk of most people’s monthly outgoings. So, if your income drops, your circumstances change or things simply get a little tighter, it can quickly become something you worry about. 

The good news? There may be support available. 

Here’s where to start. 

What Help Can I Get With My Rent? 

There are different types of support available if you’re struggling with rent. 

Depending on your circumstances, this could include: 

• Help with housing costs through Universal Credit 

• Housing Benefit if you’re still eligible 

• Additional help from your local council 

• Support if you’re at risk of falling behind with your rent 

The right option will depend on your individual circumstances, so it’s worth checking what you’re entitled to rather than assuming there’s no help available- there’s no harm in asking.  

Can Universal Credit Help With Rent? 

Yes. If you’re eligible, Universal Credit can include an amount towards your housing costs. 

For most working-age people, this has replaced making a separate Housing Benefit claim. 

But here’s the important bit: it won’t necessarily cover your entire rent. 

How much help you get depends on your circumstances. If you rent privately, the Local Housing Allowance (LHA) rate for your area and household can also affect the amount.

Can I Still Claim Housing Benefit? 

Yes, but new Housing Benefit claims are now limited to certain circumstances. 

You may still be able to claim if you’ve reached State Pension age or live in certain types of temporary, supported or sheltered accommodation. 

For most other working-age people, Universal Credit is now the main place to start.  

From 1 July 2026, Working Age Housing Benefit closed for most remaining working-age claimants, although exceptions remain. 

What’s the Difference Between Housing Benefit and Universal Credit? 

Housing Benefit specifically helps with rent, while Universal Credit is a wider payment that can include help with housing costs. 

There’s also a difference in who manages them: 

• Housing Benefit is managed by your local council. 

• Universal Credit is managed by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). 

So, in short: although both can provide help towards rent, they don’t work in exactly the same way. 

Managing Your Money When Rent Is Tight 

When you’re sorting out rent, bills and everyday spending, the last thing you need is another bit of admin getting in the way. 

If you need somewhere to receive eligible benefit payments, a Suits Me® personal account gives you your own UK sort code and account number. 

There’s no credit check to open an account, and once your money arrives, you can manage your bills and everyday spending from one place. 

[Find out more about receiving DWP and benefit payments with Suits Me →] 

What if Universal Credit or Housing Benefit Doesn’t Cover My Rent? 

First of all, don’t panic. There may be other help available. 

If there’s a gap between your rent and the support you’re receiving, your local council may be able to provide additional help depending on your circumstances. 

It’s worth speaking to them sooner rather than later. 

And if you think you’re going to struggle with an upcoming rent payment, speaking to your landlord early can also be better than waiting until you’ve already fallen behind. 

What if I’m Struggling to Pay My Rent? 

If you’re worried about paying your rent, getting help early can give you more options. 

You could: 

• Check whether you’re entitled to Universal Credit or Housing Benefit 

• Contact your local council to ask what additional support is available 

• Speak to your landlord if you think you’ll miss a payment 

• Check whether you’re receiving all the benefits you’re entitled to 

• Get independent benefits or debt advice if you need additional support 

Remember: you don’t necessarily need to wait until you’ve missed a rent payment before asking for help. 

How Is Help With Rent Paid? 

It depends on which type of support you’re receiving. 

If you’re a council tenant receiving Housing Benefit, it’s normally paid directly into your rent account. 

Other Housing Benefit payment arrangements depend on your tenancy and circumstances. 

If you receive help with housing costs through Universal Credit, it’s usually included within your overall Universal Credit payment. 

There are exceptions, including some people living in temporary or supported accommodation. 

It’s worth checking on the GOV.UK website to see which applies to you.  

Can I Get Help With Rent if I Work? 

Potentially. Having a job doesn’t automatically mean you can’t get help with housing costs. 

Your eligibility will depend on factors such as your income and individual circumstances. 

For most working-age people, any help with rent would now usually be through Universal Credit rather than a new Housing Benefit claim. 

Need an Account to Receive Your Benefit Payments? 

Sorting out support with your rent is one thing. Having somewhere to receive and manage your money is another. 

If you need an account for eligible benefit payments, a Suits Me personal account gives you: 

• Your own UK sort code and account number 

• A Mastercard® debit card 

• No credit checks to open an account 

• Access through the Suits Me mobile app and online account 

• Direct Debits and standing orders 

So, when your money comes in, you’ve got somewhere to receive it, pay your bills and manage your everyday spending. 

[Find out more about receiving DWP and benefit payments with Suits Me →] 

Help With Rent FAQs 

This article is for general information only and doesn’t constitute financial, legal or benefits advice. Eligibility and payment arrangements depend on individual circumstances and can change. Check GOV.UK or contact your local council for information specific to you.