Help with paying your rent

Many working age benefits are in the process of moving to Universal Credit. If you are on a low income or on certain welfare benefits and need help to pay your rent, you may be able to make a claim for Universal Credit.

Any Universal Credit contribution towards your rent will normally paid to you directly, monthly in arrears and you will need to make payments to your rent account yourself.

If you wish to make a claim for Universal Credit or need further information, visit:

• website: Universal Credit - GOV.UK website

If you are finding it difficult to pay your rent and are in receipt of severe disability premium or are of state pension age, you may be entitled to housing benefit.

You can also get in contact with our Revenues Team to discuss your eligibility by:

• telephone: 01623 450000.

If you are affected by the bedroom tax or benefit cap you may be eligible to apply for a Discretionary Housing Payment.

• link: Discretionary Housing Payment.

There is a range of disability-related financial support, including benefits, tax credits, payments, grants and concessions that can also be claimed.

The main disability and sickness benefits in addition to any statutory state benefits are:

Personal Independence Payment

Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is a tax-free benefit for people aged 16 to 64 to help with the extra costs caused by long term ill-health or a disability.

Attendance Allowance

Attendance Allowance is a tax-free benefit for people aged 65 or over who have a disability and need someone to help look after them.

Disability Living Allowance

Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for children may help with the extra costs of looking after a child who:

• is under 16
• has difficulties walking or needs more looking after than a child of the same age who doesn’t have a disability.

You can use an online benefits calculator to see whether you may be eligible for any welfare benefits:

• website: Online benefits calculator - GOV.UK

Citizens Advice can also provide independent help and advice on:

• debt and money advice
• rights at work
• benefits advice
• consumer helpline
• family related issues
• housing and rent arrears
• the legal system and civil rights.

Find out more on the Ashfield Citizens Advice website.

• Ashfield Citizens Advice

• website: National Debt Line
• telephone: 0808 808 4000

• website: Step Change
• telephone: 0800 138 1111

• website: payplan
• telephone: 0800 280 2816

• website: Debt Advice Foundation
• telephone: 0800 043 4050.