I am struggling to pay my rent

If you are struggling to pay your rent, do not ignore it as that will only make your situation worse. Not paying your rent will lead to rent arrears which could eventually put you at risk of losing your home. There are many options available to you which will help you manage your rent.

For detailed advice, options available to you and contact details of useful support agencies, please click on the PDF below:

"I'm struggling to pay my rent" (PDF)

What can I do?

It is vital you contact your landlord or housing provider to make them aware that you are currently facing financial difficulties and you are trying your best to resolve this. By keeping your landlord / housing provider informed, they might be more sympathetic towards your case and allow you time to sort out your finances rather than penalising you or considering eviction. Make sure you pay what you can.

• Benefits: You may be entitled to some benefits to increase your income. Contact your local Citizens Advice Bureau who will be able to advise you about the benefits you may be able to claim
• Managing your income / creating a personal budget: You can generate your own income by changing the way you spend. You can do this by creating a personal budget
• Applying for Discretionary Housing Payments (DHP): DHP's are paid in addition to housing benefit and council tax support for those who need more help to pay their housing costs. Apply through the online form.
• Other ways to save money: Try searching for cheaper utility tariffs for your gas and electricity, look for cheaper mobile contracts and consider saving money on your grocery shopping by opting for non-branded items / buying in bulk / browsing different supermarkets finding the cheapest prices. 

I have rent arrears

• Seek advice from financial advice agencies (see PDF above) who can help you manage your finances, help you draft your personal budget and put repayment plans in place based on what you can afford. They can also liaise with your landlord on your behalf.
• It is important you pay what you can towards your rent to maintain a good relationship with your landlord. Avoiding contact with your landlord whilst accumulating arrears may lead to the landlord evicting you.