Who can claim Housing and Council Tax Benefit?

Anyone who has to pay rent or council tax for their home can claim. It does not matter if your landlord is a housing association or a private individual or company, you can still claim. Boarders, lodgers, people in hostels and bed and breakfast accommodation can also claim.

If you are living with a member of your immediate family and paying them rent, you cannot claim Housing Benefit or Council Tax Benefit.

You cannot get Housing Benefit or Council Tax Benefit if you have capital of over £16,000, unless you are already receiving the guaranteed part of Pension Credit. Capital means savings, land, property or anything else which could provide you with income.

You must be on a low income.

• it doesn't matter whether you are in work or not
• you can be employed or self-employed
• you can get Housing Benefit or Council Tax Benefit even if you do not receive any other benefits
• you may be single or have a partner
• you may be a pensioner
• you do not need to have paid any National Insurance contributions.

Students

Most students do not qualify for Housing Benefit or Council Tax Benefit, but there are a few exceptions.

For more information, please telephone |Customer Services on 01372 474060.

|Alternatively you can complete our On-line claim form