Housing Benefit 2026/27
By Omair SaoLast reviewed — rates for the 2026/27 tax year. See how we check our figures.
Housing Benefit helps people on a low income pay their rent. It is administered by local councils and the amount you receive depends on your income, savings, the size of your household, and the rent you pay. For private tenants, the amount is usually limited to the Local Housing Allowance (LHA) rate for your area, which is based on the size of property you are considered to need and local market rents.
Housing Benefit is gradually being replaced by Universal Credit for most working-age claimants. If you are making a new claim and are of working age, you will usually need to claim Universal Credit instead, which includes a housing costs element. However, Housing Benefit is still available for people who have reached State Pension age and are not claiming Universal Credit, people in certain types of supported or temporary accommodation, and some existing claimants who have not yet been moved to Universal Credit.
If you are a council or housing association tenant, Housing Benefit (or the UC housing element) is usually paid directly to your landlord. If you are a private tenant, it may be paid to you or your landlord depending on your circumstances. The benefit can cover all or part of your eligible rent depending on your income and household composition.
Housing Benefit Rates 2026/27
Eligibility
- You pay rent (including to a housing association or private landlord)
- You are on a low income or receiving certain benefits
- You have less than £16,000 in savings (unless you receive Pension Credit Guarantee Credit)
- For new claims: you have reached State Pension age, or you live in certain types of supported accommodation
How to Claim
Contact your local council to claim Housing Benefit. If you are of working age and making a new claim, you will usually need to claim Universal Credit instead. Your council can advise which benefit is right for you.
If Your Claim Is Refused
Housing Benefit is run by your local council under its own scheme, so the first step is to ask the council in writing to look at the decision again, ideally within one month. If you still disagree, you can appeal to the independent Valuation Tribunal (for council tax support) or a social security tribunal (for Housing Benefit). Free help is available from Citizens Advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still claim Housing Benefit?
If you are of working age and making a new claim, you will usually need to claim Universal Credit instead, which includes a housing costs element. Housing Benefit is still available for pensioners, people in supported accommodation, and some existing claimants who have not yet migrated to Universal Credit.
What is the Local Housing Allowance?
The Local Housing Allowance (LHA) is the maximum amount of Housing Benefit (or UC housing element) you can receive if you rent privately. It is based on the Broad Rental Market Area where you live and the number of bedrooms you are assessed as needing. LHA rates are set annually and are intended to cover the 30th percentile of local rents.
Does Housing Benefit cover my full rent?
Not always. If your income is above a certain level, your Housing Benefit will be reduced. If your rent is above the LHA rate for your area, you will need to make up the difference. The spare room subsidy (also called the 'bedroom tax') may also reduce your entitlement if you have more bedrooms than you are deemed to need.
Official Sources
The rates and rules on this page come from the following official publications and were checked on 25 September 2026. Read how we check our figures.
Related Tools
Related Benefits
Universal Credit
A monthly payment to help with living costs if you are on a low income or out of work.
Council Tax Reduction
Help with your council tax bill if you are on a low income or claiming certain benefits.
Pension Credit
A top-up for pensioners on a low income to bring their weekly income to a minimum level.