HOUSING BENEFIT
You maybe able to get help with the cost of your rent by applying for Housing Benefit. Information and an application form can be obtained from the Housing Benefit section of your local council. You do not need to be receiving Income Support to apply for Housing Benefit.
If you are taking up a new tenancy and depend on Housing Benefit to help you pay the rent, it is very important that you apply immediately -preferably within the week the tenancy commences. If you delay applying, you are very unlikely to receive Housing Benefit for the period between your tenancy starting and the date of your application. This could mean you go into rent arrears at the start of your tenancy. This could threaten your security of tenure unless you could cover the shortfall.
The earliest possible application is also advised if you already have a tenancy and, because of changed circumstances you are no longer able to pay the rent.
Specific rules govern how much Housing Benefit you maybe entitled to. For more information about Housing Benefit contact the local Housing Benefit section of your local council, or seek advice from your local Citizens Advice Bureau ( CAB) (See here).