If you do not meet the criteria for Universal Credit, you can apply for Housing Benefit for help with your rent, if:

• you pay rent
• you’re on a low income or claiming other benefits
• you receive Pension Credit
• your savings are below £16,000 (this does not apply if you are in receipt of Pension Credit Guarantee Credit)

You can apply if you’re employed or unemployed, but if you live with a partner, you’ll need to make a joint claim.

Who is not eligible

Usually, you cannot claim Housing Benefit if:

• you meet the criteria to apply for Universal Credit for help with your rent
• your savings are over £16,000 - unless you get the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit
• you pay to rent and live in the home of a close relative
• you’re a full-time student - unless you’re an eligible student
• you’re living in the UK as a European Economic Area jobseeker
• you’re an asylum seeker or sponsored to be in the UK
• you’re subject to immigration control and your granted leave states that you can’t claim public funds