If you’re struggling with housing costs, Universal Credit can provide financial assistance. Whether you’re renting or a homeowner, you can apply for support through your online account. This guide explains how to apply, what documents you need, and what happens after your application is submitted.
How to Apply for Universal Credit Housing Support
Already Receiving Universal Credit?
If you already get Universal Credit, you can apply for housing support through your online account.
New to Universal Credit?
If you haven’t applied before, you need to first apply for Universal Credit before requesting housing support.
You may need help applying, so ensure you have:
- An email address
- Documents to verify your identity online
Applying Without a Permanent Address
If you don’t have a fixed address, you can still apply for Universal Credit by using:
- The address of a hostel where you are staying
- The address of a family member or friend
- If neither option is available, you can use the local Jobcentre Plus address
What If You Don’t Have a Bank Account?
Universal Credit payments are usually made into a bank, building society, or credit union account. However, if you cannot open an account, you can:
- Call the Universal Credit helpline
- Visit a Jobcentre Plus to ask about alternative payment methods
After You Apply for Housing Support
If You’re Renting
Once you apply, your landlord will receive a Housing Costs Verification (HCV) form. They must complete and return it. The information will be checked against your claim and uploaded to your Universal Credit account.
Attending an Interview
Depending on your circumstances, you may be required to attend an interview at your local Jobcentre Plus within 7 days.
Documents You May Need to Bring
You will be told what documents to bring, which may include:
- Tenancy agreement, rent statement, or rent book
- A letter from your landlord confirming your tenancy and rent amount
- Details of service charges you are responsible for
- Mortgage agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statements showing mortgage payments
- Loan agreements secured against your property
At the interview, you will be assigned a Work Coach. If you have special circumstances (such as being homeless or having health issues), inform them so they can provide extra support.
If You’ve Moved from Housing Benefit
If you were previously on Housing Benefit, it will continue for two more weeks after your Universal Credit claim is approved. The money will be paid directly to you, and you must pay your rent to your landlord.
Direct Payment to Landlord
When your Universal Credit claim is approved, you may be given the option to have your housing costs paid directly to your landlord, especially if you are in rent arrears. If you choose this option, your landlord will be notified.
You do NOT need to inform your local authority when switching from Housing Benefit to Universal Credit.
Need Help While Waiting? Apply for an Advance
Since Universal Credit payments take time to process, you can apply for an advance to cover your costs while you wait. This is an interest-free loan that you will repay over time from your future Universal Credit payments.
Applying for Universal Credit housing support is a straightforward process, whether you’re renting or paying a mortgage. If you already receive Universal Credit, you can request support through your online account. If you’re new, you need to apply for Universal Credit first. You can still apply even if you don’t have a bank account or permanent address.
After submitting your application, you may need to attend an interview and provide documents such as a tenancy agreement or mortgage statement. If you were previously on Housing Benefit, it will continue for two more weeks to help with rent payments. If you need immediate financial help, you can apply for an advance while waiting for your Universal Credit payments.
FAQ’s
How do I apply for Universal Credit housing support?
If you already receive Universal Credit, you can apply through your online account. If you’re new to Universal Credit, you must first apply for Universal Credit before requesting housing support.
Can I apply for Universal Credit if I don’t have a permanent address?
Yes, you can use the address of a hostel, a family member, a friend, or your local Jobcentre Plus if you don’t have any other address.
What if I don’t have a bank account for Universal Credit payments?
If you cannot open a bank, building society, or credit union account, you can call the Universal Credit helpline or visit a Jobcentre Plus for alternative payment options.
What happens after I apply for Universal Credit housing support?
If you’re renting, your landlord will receive a Housing Costs Verification (HCV) form to confirm your housing costs. You may also need to attend an interview at Jobcentre Plus.
Do I need to attend an interview for Universal Credit housing support?
Depending on your situation, you may need to attend an interview at Jobcentre Plus within 7 days. You may be asked to bring tenancy agreements, mortgage documents, or rent statements.
If I was on Housing Benefit, will I still receive payments after switching to Universal Credit?
Yes, Housing Benefit will continue for 2 weeks after your Universal Credit claim is approved. The money will be paid directly to you, and you must pay rent to your landlord.
Can I get my Universal Credit housing payment sent directly to my landlord?
Yes, if you are in rent arrears or prefer direct payment, you can request that your housing support be sent directly to your landlord.
Can I get an advance payment while waiting for Universal Credit?
Yes, you can apply for an advance payment if you need financial support while waiting for your first Universal Credit payment. This is an interest-free loan that must be repaid.