Paying your rent if you are on benefits

Housing Benefit can only be backdated for a maximum of 4 weeks for working aged claimants, and only then if the claimant can demonstrate good cause for the whole of the 4 week period they are asking for the backdate to cover.

It is therefore extremely important that all Housing Benefit claimants make their claims promptly.

Universal Credit will be paid directly into your bank, building society, or Post Office account each month. This will include your rent, which you must arrange to pay to us yourself. Click here to find more information about paying your rent if you are claiming Universal Credit.

It is your responsibility to make sure that your rent is paid in full and in advance.