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Before you apply for benefit

FAQ for Before you apply for benefit | Contact for Before you apply for benefit

Not everyone is eligible to apply for Housing Benefit.

  • If you live with a partner only one of you can claim Housing Benefit.
  • Savings over £16,000 usually mean that you cannot get Housing Benefit, and other savings usually affect the amount you can get. 
  • You cannot usually get Housing Benefit if you live in a close relative's household.
  • You cannot usually get Housing Benefit if you are a full time student, unless you are disabled or have children.
  • If you have recently come from abroad or returned from abroad, this may affect your Housing Benefit.
  • If you have come to the UK within two years of your claim, this may affect Housing Benefit.
  • Most asylum seekers and people who are sponsored to be in the UK cannot get Housing Benefit.

Housing Benefit may not cover all the rent you pay. It will not cover charges for water rates, electricity, gas and some other services. The amount of Housing Benefit you receive may also depend on the Rent Officer's valuation.