Emergency Information - Can't pay my rent
You might find yourself caught short of money and need help with essentials like food or paying your bills. Please look at the range of support options we discuss in this guide.
- Last reviewed 20 November 2024
Can't pay my rent
If you are worried about being able to pay your rent, first make sure you are getting all the help you’re entitled to. You can get help with rent through the benefits system. To check what benefit help you're entitled to, use our free, confidential Benefits Calculator.
If your landlord is a housing association, they might have their own in-house benefits team who can help you by checking your benefit entitlement. Visit their website confirm and contact them for assistance.
If the help you get with rent through the benefits system is less than your rent amount (for example, because you're affected by the bedroom tax or the benefit cap), contact your council and ask for a Discretionary Housing Payment.
Next, get in touch with your landlord to let them know what is happening. If your landlord is not being understanding, get advice on what you should do.
Housing advice
The following organisations can advise further on housing issues:
England
Wales
Scotland
Northern Ireland
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