Register for social housing

If you’re on a low income, whether you’re working or not, and need financial help to pay all, or part of your rent, you may be able to get housing benefit/universal credit.

The benefit you will get is the same as your eligible rent. Eligible rent includes:

• rent for the accommodation
• charges for some services, such as lifts, communal laundry facilities or play areas.

Even if it’s included in your rent, your benefits will not cover:

• water charges
• charges for heating, hot water, lighting, or cooking
• payments for food or fuel in board and lodgings or hostels.

The amount of benefits you get will also depend on the members of the household as well as the claimants and partner's personal and financial circumstances.

Discretionary housing payments

If you are receiving universal credit (which includes an allowance for housing element) or housing benefit, but are still struggling with your bills, you can apply for extra financial help, known as a discretionary housing payment. Find out more.

Help with a rent deposit to a private landlord

We work with Fusion Credit Union who offer low costs loans which can be used to prevent homelessness in some instances.

If you are threatened with homelessness and have found alternative accommodation, but require help with a deposit and/or rent in advance, contact our housing options team at housing@lichfielddc.gov.uk.

Find out more

Visit our benefits section to find out more.