Benefits to Help Pay Rent in Wales: A Renter's Guide

If you are renting in Wales and finding it hard to keep up with rent payments, there is support available. Various government benefits can help pay your rent or prevent rent arrears, whether your tenancy is private, council, or housing association. Understanding what you are eligible for and how to apply can relieve some stress and help you stay in your home.

Which Benefits Can Help with Rent in Wales?

Most renters in Wales look to one of the following benefits to help cover rent costs:

• Universal Credit (Housing Costs Element) – for most working-age people
• Housing Benefit – mainly for those over State Pension age or in certain supported accommodation
• Discretionary Housing Payments – for renters already receiving Universal Credit or Housing Benefit but needing extra help
• Support with Council Tax (sometimes packaged with rent support)

Universal Credit (Housing Costs Element)

Universal Credit can help pay all or part of your rent if you are on a low income. The online application process is managed by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

• You must be on a low income or out of work.
• Proof of your tenancy and rental payments will be required.
• Your entitlement depends on your income, savings, the number of people in your household, and who lives with you.

You can apply for Universal Credit at any time. For a clear, easy-to-follow guide on making a claim in Wales, use the official Universal Credit portal.

Housing Benefit

Housing Benefit is being replaced by Universal Credit for many people, but some renters in Wales (mainly those above State Pension age or in certain kinds of supported housing) may still claim it through their local council. Use the official Housing Benefit application process.

• Apply if you are responsible for paying rent and not eligible for Universal Credit.
• You will fill out your council’s Housing Benefit form—available on their website or to request in paper form.
• Example form: If you rent from Cardiff Council, use the Cardiff Housing Benefit online form. Similar forms exist for other councils in Wales.

Discretionary Housing Payments (DHP)

Discretionary Housing Payments (DHP) are extra support for renters struggling to meet their rent, available if you already get either Housing Benefit or the housing element of Universal Credit. These payments are handled by your local authority.

• You might apply for DHP if your benefit doesn't cover your full rent, or you face a temporary difficulty, such as a rent increase, loss of income, or benefit cap.
• Each local authority has its own process, but you usually need to fill in a Discretionary Housing Payment application form.
• Example: The Cardiff DHP form is typical. Check your local council's website for theirs.

Other Support for Welsh Renters

You may also be eligible for:

• Council Tax Reduction – see details on Council Tax Reduction scheme
• Local Welfare Provision – for emergency money or support in a crisis (run by each council)
• Grants (not a benefit) such as the Wales Fuel Support Scheme

Key Official Forms for Rent Support in Wales

• Universal Credit Online Application
  When: To claim Universal Credit—most renters of working age should use this.
  How: Complete online with ID and rent documents.
  Claim Universal Credit
• Housing Benefit Application Form
  When: If you are over State Pension age or live in qualifying accommodation.
  How: Download or request from your local council.
  Example: Cardiff Council Housing Benefit form
• Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP) Application
  When: If you already receive Housing Benefit or Universal Credit and still can’t cover your rent.
  How: Download and submit to your local council.
  Example: Cardiff Council DHP form

Local councils across Wales have their own forms and processes, so always check your council’s housing benefit pages for the correct link.

Which Tribunal Handles Housing Benefit Appeals in Wales?

If you disagree with a decision about your benefit claim, you can challenge it. In Wales, most benefit and rent support disputes go to the First-tier Tribunal (Social Security and Child Support).

Relevant Tenancy Legislation in Wales

Private and social renters in Wales are protected by the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016, which sets out rights and responsibilities regarding rent, notice periods, and occupation contracts.¹

Benefit rules are based on national UK regulations, like the Welfare Reform Act 2012.²

FAQ: Support with Rent in Wales

1. Who can claim Universal Credit for rent in Wales?
   Most people of working age with low income or out of work can apply for Universal Credit. Those over State Pension age, or in certain supported housing, may need to use Housing Benefit instead.
2. Can I get both Universal Credit and Housing Benefit?
   In most cases, no. If you are on Universal Credit, your housing costs will be paid through Universal Credit, not Housing Benefit, unless you're in supported or temporary accommodation.
3. How do I apply for a Discretionary Housing Payment?
   You must already get Housing Benefit or Universal Credit. Then, request the DHP form from your local council, complete it, and provide evidence of your financial hardship.
4. What if my benefit does not cover all of my rent?
   Apply for Discretionary Housing Payment from your council and contact your landlord or housing provider to explain your situation while you get support.
5. Which tribunal do I contact if I want to appeal a benefit decision?
   In Wales, benefit and rent support decisions are appealed to the First-tier Tribunal (Social Security and Child Support).

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• Most renters in Wales should apply for Universal Credit to get help with rent; older renters may claim Housing Benefit.
• Discretionary Housing Payments offer extra help if regular benefits aren't enough.
• Important appeals go to the First-tier Tribunal, and Welsh tenancy law is found in the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016.

Applying early and reaching out for help from councils or advice services can make a big difference.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Wales

• Universal Credit official site
• Housing Benefit overview
• Housing: Welsh Government portal
• First-tier Tribunal (Social Security and Child Support)
• Local council housing benefit pages (search '[your council] housing benefit')

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1. Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016
2. Welfare Reform Act 2012

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