Who can apply for Housing Benefit
Last updated: 19 February 2026
Next review: 19 February 2027
If you receive benefits, on a low income, or unemployed, you can get support to help pay your rent.
Most people will now get this support through Universal Credit. How Universal Credit can help with your rent
Some people can still apply for Housing Benefit. You can make a new Housing Benefit claim if you:
- have reached State Pension age
- live in supported, sheltered or temporary housing
Who can’t get Housing Benefit
- you are a student
- you have over £16,000 in savings, stocks and shares or other funds, unless you get guaranteed credit of pension
- you already get Universal Credit or are entitled to claim it