Housing Benefit (England, Scotland and Wales) - What is Housing Benefit?
Housing Benefit is money to help certain groups with housing costs if they are on a low income. It can help with rent, some service charges and also with rates.
- Last reviewed 25 March 2026
What is Housing Benefit?
Housing Benefit is money to help certain groups of people with housing costs if they're on a low income. It can also help with rent and some service charges.
If you qualify, Housing Benefit can be paid whether you're working or not.
If you're a private tenant, the amount of Housing Benefit you get may be restricted by the The most help you can get from benefits to pay rent in the private sector. See full definition Rate in your area.
Mortgages or home loans
You cannot get Housing Benefit to help with the costs of a mortgage or home loan. If you own the home you live in, you may be able to get a loan for mortgage interest if you are getting Pension Credit or Universal Credit.
Applies to: England, Scotland and Wales
If you live in Northern Ireland, read our Housing Benefit (Northern Ireland) guide.
Age rules: You must have reached state pension age. Those below Being over 16 but under 66. See full definition must be in certain accommodation.
Type of benefit: Eligibility depends on the amount of income and capital you have. See full definition
Taxable: No
Administered by: Your local council
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