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Paying rent and other accommodation costs can be expensive, especially if you are on a low income or benefits.  Housing benefit and Council Tax benefit may help you meet some of these costs.

If you are under 18:

• Your rights to benefits are very limited.  If you are living in rented accommodation but not with a close relative you may be able to claim for housing benefit.
• Your claim for housing benefit may be linked to a claim for other benefits.
• There are some under 18s who can get Jobseekers Allowance, but only under special circumstances, such as being forced to live away from home and suffering severe hardship.
• If you are in care, Social Services must make sure you are in suitable accommodation until you are 18.  See 'Looked after young people' in the Relationships section of this website.

Your personal adviser will be able to help you find out more and can help you apply for Jobseekers Allowance. If you are able to make a claim for benefit, you will also be advised to apply for housing benefit.

If you are over 18:

• You can make a claim for housing benefit if you are living in rented accommodation and are on low income or benefits. 
• If you are single and under 25 you can only get housing benefit for bed-sit accommodation or one room in shared accommodation. 
• The most housing benefit you can get is the same as your 'eligible' rent. 'Eligible' rent covers rent for accommodation and charges for other some other services. So, depending on the rent you pay, your housing benefit may not cover it all.
• Students on full time courses are not able to apply for housing benefit even during their summer breaks.
• If you are eligible to pay council tax but are on low income/benefits, you may be able to claim council tax benefit to help you with the cost of your tax.

Your personal adviser can help you if you are making a claim for benefits. They can help you complete the necessary forms and make sure you get to see the right people.

 

 

 

 

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