Rent is the biggest cost most households face, and there's more help with it than people realise — it's just gone by different names and moved around in recent years. If you're on a low income and renting, here's what exists in the UK and Ireland, and how to get it.
Quick facts
- UK (working age)
- Help with rent now comes through the Universal Credit housing element
- UK (pensioners)
- Still claim Housing Benefit
- Ireland
- The HAP scheme & Rent Supplement
- Extra
- Discretionary Housing Payments (UK) for a temporary shortfall
In the UK
How you get rent help depends on your age:
- Working-age renters: help with rent is now part of Universal Credit — the "housing element". If you claim UC and pay rent, make sure your rent and tenancy details are entered so the housing element is included.
- Pensioners (over State Pension age): you generally still claim Housing Benefit through your local council. People in supported, sheltered or temporary housing may also still claim Housing Benefit.
- Northern Ireland: Housing Benefit is run by the Housing Executive (NIHE), and renters there can claim it alongside other support.
In Ireland
Ireland's main scheme is the Housing Assistance Payment (HAP): your local council pays your landlord directly, and you pay a smaller, income-based contribution to the council. It's for people with a long-term housing need who qualify for social housing support. There's also Rent Supplement, a shorter-term payment for people who were already renting and hit a sudden income drop. And remember — if you rent privately, you can also claim the Rent Tax Credit worth up to €1,000.
How to claim — step by step
Work out which applies
UK working age → Universal Credit. UK pensioner / supported housing → Housing Benefit. Ireland → HAP (long-term) or Rent Supplement (short-term).
Get your tenancy details together
Tenancy agreement, rent amount, landlord details, and proof of income and savings.
Apply through the right body
UC at GOV.UK; Housing Benefit through your council (or NIHE in NI); HAP through your local authority in Ireland.
Don't forget the Rent Tax Credit (Ireland)
If you rent privately in Ireland, claim the Rent Tax Credit too — it's separate from HAP/Rent Supplement.
Ask for a top-up if you're short
UK renters facing a shortfall can apply for a Discretionary Housing Payment through the council.
Common questions
Can I still claim Housing Benefit in the UK?
What's HAP in Ireland?
Can I get rent help and the Rent Tax Credit?
What if my benefit doesn't cover all my rent?
Check the official sources
This guide is general information, not housing or benefits advice. Schemes differ across the UK and Ireland and change over time — always confirm the current details with the relevant body before you claim.
Keep going
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