Housing Benefit
A means-tested benefit that helps pay rent for people who are unemployed, on a low income, or claiming other benefits. Being phased out and replaced by Universal Credit — new claims are now generally only possible for people who have reached State Pension age, or who live in supported, sheltered, or temporary housing.
Independent editorial summary — not the official statute text. Read the official version on legislation.gov.uk.
Official guidance describes both the purpose of the benefit and its diminishing role: 'Housing Benefit can help you pay your rent if you're unemployed, on a low income or claiming benefits. It's being replaced by Universal Credit.' Reflecting that transition, a new claim can now only be made in narrow circumstances: 'You can only make a new claim for Housing Benefit if either of the following apply:' having reached State Pension age, or being 'in supported, sheltered or temporary housing.'
Even within the State Pension age route, couples face extra conditions. Guidance sets out that a claim is possible where 'you and your partner have both reached State Pension age' or 'one of you has reached State Pension age and started claiming Pension Credit (for you as a couple) before 15 May 2019.' Everyone else who needs help with rent, including working-age claimants who do not fall into the supported or sheltered housing route, is directed elsewhere: guidance states plainly, 'You can apply for Universal Credit if you're not eligible' for Housing Benefit.
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Official sources
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