Housing Benefit Calculator
Estimate how much Housing Benefit you could receive to help with your rent.
Calculator Coming Soon
We're working on a comprehensive Housing Benefit calculator that will include Local Housing Allowance rates, bedroom entitlement calculations, and income assessment.
In the meantime:
If you receive Universal Credit, housing costs are included in your UC payment. Use our Universal Credit Calculator instead.
About Housing Benefit
Housing Benefit helps people on a low income pay their rent. If you're working age, you'll usually need to claim Universal Credit instead, which includes a housing costs element.
Who Can Claim Housing Benefit
You may be able to claim Housing Benefit if you:
- Are on a low income or receiving benefits
- Pay rent (not a mortgage)
- Have savings below £16,000
- Are pension age (or your partner is)
- Live in temporary or supported housing (some working-age people)
Local Housing Allowance (LHA)
If you rent from a private landlord, the maximum Housing Benefit is based on Local Housing Allowance rates for your area. LHA rates depend on the number of bedrooms you're entitled to and vary by location.
Bedroom Entitlement
The number of bedrooms you're entitled to depends on:
- 1 bedroom for you and your partner
- 1 bedroom for each pair of children under 10
- 1 bedroom for each pair of same-sex children under 16
- 1 bedroom for any other child
- 1 bedroom for a non-resident carer (if needed)
How to Claim
Contact your local council to claim Housing Benefit. You'll need to provide proof of identity, income, rent, and savings.