Quick Q on housing benefit which became part of UC

LaPiePourri · 6 July at 8:47PM

So housing benefit is now included as part of the UC payment and by default is paid into the receipient's bank account instead of direct to the landlord.

My Q is are the payments I receive (including what was housing benefit) for the rent before the date of the payment or the rent after the date of the payment?

I spent what was meant to be for my rent and now I have arrears.

Robbie64 · 6 July at 9:30PM

The housing element, like the rest of the money that is paid as UC, is paid for a past period. It covers the last assessment period, which will be listed on your UC statement.

TimeLord1 · 7 July at 4:18PM

You can ask for your rent to be paid directly to your landlord. Also, you will be in arrears anyway on UC as it's paid in arrears. But you can apply for an advance payment loan to be paid back monthly interest-free over a selected time limit. Speak to your landlord see if they use the portal to communicate with UC