If you’re struggling to pay your landlord, you’re not alone. Many tenants seek Housing Benefit Help for Overdue Rent due to unexpected financial difficulties, benefit delays or changes in employment. Getting the right support quickly can help you avoid eviction and stay in your home. The Tenant Protection Scheme (TPS) should be your first call if you’re at risk — they offer affordable legal help for tenants facing rent arrears, eviction or other tenancy problems.
How Housing Benefit Help for Overdue Rent Can Support You
Housing Benefit is designed to help low-income tenants meet their rental payments. If you’ve fallen behind on rent, you may be able to get backdated help or increase the amount you receive. However, acting quickly is essential, especially if your landlord has begun possession proceedings.
While new claims for Housing Benefit are mostly limited to people over State Pension age or those in supported housing, Universal Credit has taken over for most working-age tenants. The housing element of Universal Credit can be used to cover rent payments. In cases of arrears, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) can arrange for payments to go directly to your landlord — this is called an Alternative Payment Arrangement (APA).
First Steps When You Can’t Pay Your Rent
If you fall into arrears, take action immediately. Delayed responses can risk eviction. Here are the practical steps to follow:
- Check your benefit entitlement. Use a benefits calculator or speak to a welfare adviser to confirm whether you can claim Housing Benefit or Universal Credit, and how much help you may get.
- Apply without delay. Housing Benefit does not usually backdate automatically. You must explain why the claim is late, and even then, it can only be backdated for up to one month in most cases.
- Speak to your landlord. Updating your landlord on your situation shows you’re acting responsibly. Many are more willing to work with you if you communicate openly and show you’re taking steps to address the arrears.
- Request direct payments. If you’re on Universal Credit and struggling to budget, you can ask for the housing costs to be paid directly to your landlord. This can also strengthen your position if your landlord is considering legal action.
The Tenant Protection Scheme (TPS) is a 24/7 tenant legal helpline offering affordable, solicitor-backed help for eviction defence, disrepair, harassment, rent arrears, deposit disputes, and on-the-day court support across the UK. Membership is £10/month. Learn more at The Tenant Protection Scheme (TPS).
Support Beyond Housing Benefit
In addition to Housing Benefit Help for Overdue Rent, local councils can offer Discretionary Housing Payments (DHP). A DHP can provide temporary top-up support if your Housing Benefit or Universal Credit doesn’t cover the full rent. These payments are limited and judged on a case-by-case basis, so it’s best to apply early and give full details of your circumstances.
Some charities and local organisations also offer one-off hardship grants for rent arrears. It’s worth exploring these alongside speaking with a debt adviser, especially if rent debts are only one part of wider money problems.
What the Law Says About Rent Arrears
Legally, rent arrears can lead to eviction, especially under assured shorthold tenancy agreements. Your landlord can issue a Section 8 notice if you owe at least eight weeks or two months of rent. That’s why getting Housing Benefit Help for Overdue Rent as soon as possible is vital.
It’s also important to attend any court hearings if your landlord applies for possession. Showing the judge that you have taken steps to claim benefits, seek advice and manage the arrears may influence the outcome — the court might make a suspended possession order instead of granting eviction outright.
Your Responsibilities as a Tenant
Even if you’ve applied for help, you must do your part as a tenant. Keep evidence of benefit claims, communications with DWP or your council, and any payments you’ve made. If your claim is delayed, follow up regularly. Failure to engage can weaken your legal standing if matters progress to court.
The sooner you act, the better your chances of staying in your home. There are options — but time is almost always a factor in how well those options can work for you.
Call The Tenant Protection Scheme today on 0330 633 0299 Don’t wait until it’s too late – start your protection now. For just a small monthly cost you get direct legal support from experts, with your membership active within 24 hours. Call us now to start your protection today.