If you’re applying for Housing Benefit, you’ll need to provide key information and supporting documents to help process your claim quickly. Having these details ready when you apply can speed up the process and prevent delays.
What Information Do You Need to Provide?
When making a Housing Benefit claim, you’ll need to provide the following details:
- Your rent amount – How much you pay each week or month.
- Included costs – Whether your rent covers water, gas, electricity, or other charges.
- Service charges – If you pay extra for building maintenance, insurance, or other services.
- Landlord or agent details – Their name and contact information.
Special Types of Tenancy
- If your tenancy started in 1997 or earlier and you rent from a private landlord, you’ll need to check if you have an assured tenancy. You can confirm this on the Shelter website.
- If you live in government-owned property (a ‘Crown Tenant’), such as armed forces accommodation, you cannot claim Housing Benefit.
Documents You Must Provide
You’ll need to provide original documents (not copies) as evidence for your claim.
Proof of Income and Finances
- Recent payslips – 5 if paid weekly or 2 if paid monthly.
- Bank or building society statements – Covering the last 2 full months.
- Proof of other income – Includes shares, ISAs, Premium Bonds, or other investments.
- Income details for non-dependants – Proof of earnings for any adult relatives or friends living with you.
Proof of Identity and Address (for You and Your Partner)
You must provide two of the following documents (one for identity and one for address):
- UK photocard driving licence
- Current passport
- Birth or marriage certificate
- Certificate of registration or naturalisation
- Permanent residence card
- Letter from HMRC or the Home Office
- Recent utility bill
- Recent bank or building society statement
- Recent benefit award statement
Additional Documents for Private Tenants
If you rent from a private landlord, you’ll also need to provide one of the following:
- Tenancy agreement or rent book
- Letter from your landlord confirming your tenancy (usually provided at the start of your tenancy)
Having the correct information and documents ready when applying for Housing Benefit will help ensure your claim is processed smoothly. If you’re unsure whether you qualify or need assistance with gathering the necessary documents, check GOV.UK or speak to your local council for further guidance.
FAQ’s
What information do I need to apply for Housing Benefit?
You’ll need details of your rent, service charges, landlord’s contact information, and whether any utilities are included in your rent.
What documents do I need for proof of income?
You must provide recent payslips (5 if weekly, 2 if monthly), bank statements for the last 2 months, and proof of other income or investments.
Can I use the same document to prove my partner’s name and address?
No, you must provide separate documents to prove both your partner’s name and address.
What additional documents do private renters need?
If renting from a private landlord, you must provide either a tenancy agreement, rent book, or a landlord’s letter confirming your tenancy.
Can I claim Housing Benefit if I live in government-owned property?
No, Crown Tenants, including armed forces members in service family accommodation, are not eligible for Housing Benefit.