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Claiming benefit

What is housing nenefit?

Housing benefit is paid by local councils to people on low incomes, to cover part or all of their rent. If you receive income support or job seekers allowance, you will be normally be entitled to housing benefit for all of your rent.

However, this may change if you have a non-dependant living with you. A non-dependant is someone who is over 18 and who lives with you but is not your partner. They are expected to make a contribution towards the rent. It's your responsibility to pay any rent not covered by housing benefit.

How do I claim housing benefit?

To claim housing benefit you must fill in a claim form. You can get one from your local Genesis office, or from your local council housing benefit office. If you need any help filling in the form, your income services officer at Genesis will be happy to help. You will also need to have some proof of identification, your income and address.

What if I need help with claiming housing benefit?

If you have any problems claiming housing benefit, you can get help from:

  • the housing benefit office
  • your income services officer at Genesis
  • a citizens advice bureau

What will housing benefit pay for?

All rents and most service charges are eligible for housing benefit. Things not usually covered by housing benefit include heating costs, TV licenses and nursing care.

What if my circumstances change?

If your circumstances change, for example, if you start work or someone leaves your household, you have to tell the housing benefit office as your claim may need reassessed. You are responsible for any rent arrears that result from a housing benefit overpayment.

General advice - your responsibilities towards housing benefit

  • provide any information requested by the housing benefit office as quickly as possible
  • tell the housing benefit office of any change in your circumstances
  • pay any housing benefit paid to you into your rent account
  • pay any rent or charges not covered by housing benefit to Genesis

Get an estimate of your housing benefit entitlement

The benefits calculator on the City of Westminster website will give you an estimate of your Housing Benefit entitlement.

How do I contact my local Housing Benefit office?

Download a list of Housing Benefits offices (pdf, 40.8Kb) for the London boroughs that Genesis operates in.

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