Universal Credit and Housing: Your Complete Guide for Over 35s
If you’re over 35 and navigating the Universal Credit system to find a safe, stable place to live, you’re not alone. The process can feel overwhelming, but understanding how it works is the first step toward securing the right accommodation. At Rooms From The Heart, we specialize in providing quality housing for people just like you. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about using Universal Credit for housing.
What is the Universal Credit Housing Element? Universal Credit is a single monthly payment that includes support for your living costs and your housing costs. The part that helps with your rent is called the Housing Element. It has largely replaced the old system of Housing Benefit for people of working age.
The key thing to know is that the Housing Element is usually paid directly to you as part of your monthly Universal Credit payment. It’s then your responsibility to pay your rent to your landlord. This gives you control over your budget but also requires careful money management.
Who is Eligible for the Housing Element? You could get help with your rent if you:
· Are on a low income or out of work.
· Pay rent for the home you live in.
· Are under State Pension age.
· Live in the UK and meet the eligibility criteria.
Your eligibility and the amount you receive depend on your circumstances, including your age, who you live with, your income and savings, and your local area.
How Much Housing Element Will You Get? The amount you get isn’t necessarily based on your actual rent. Instead, it’s based on your Local Housing Allowance (LHA) rate. This rate depends on:
· The area you live in (e.g., London rates are different from elsewhere).
· The number of bedrooms you are entitled to (based on who lives with you).
For single adults over 35 without dependents, you are typically entitled to the LHA rate for a one-bedroom property, even if you rent a room in a shared house. This is a crucial point that often works in your favour.
Finding a Landlord Who Accepts Universal Credit This is one of the biggest challenges. Some landlords are hesitant, but many, like us at Rooms From The Heart, specifically welcome tenants receiving benefits.
· Look for “DSS” listings: While an outdated term, “DSS” is still widely used in property searches to mean landlords who accept tenants on benefits.
· Be upfront: Always be honest about your income source from the start.
· Seek out specialist providers: Some agencies and landlords focus on offering supported or affordable housing for those on Universal Credit.
Your Responsibilities on Universal Credit
· Pay your rent on time: Since the money is paid to you, you must ensure your landlord receives it.
· Report changes immediately: Any change in your income, savings, or living situation must be reported to Universal Credit straight away. This includes changes to your rent.
· Manage your budget: You will need to budget your single monthly payment to cover all your expenses for the month.
How Rooms From The Heart Can Help We understand the system because we work with it every day. We offer clean, safe, and furnished rooms for adults over 35 who are on Universal Credit. We make the process simple and supportive.
Are you looking for an understanding landlord and a stable room? Contact us today. You can reach Thomas directly at 07810657502 or email info@roomsfromtheheart.com to have a friendly, no-obligation chat. You can also fill out our simple application form on our website to get started: www.roomsfromtheheart.com
Securing housing on Universal Credit is absolutely possible. With the right information and the right landlord, you can find a place to call home. Don’t get discouraged—take it one step at a time and seek out supportive providers.
How to Apply for the Universal Credit Housing Element: A Step-by-Step Guide
Applying for help with your rent through Universal Credit can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. This clear, step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of applying for the Housing Element, ensuring you provide the right evidence to get the support you need for your accommodation.
Before You Start: What You’ll Need To complete your application, you’ll need to have some information ready:
· Your bank account details.
· Your email address.
· Your National Insurance number.
· Details of your housing costs (e.g., how much rent you pay, your landlord’s address).
· Information about your income and savings.
· Proof of identity (e.g., driving licence, passport).
Step 1: Start Your Universal Credit Claim All claims for Universal Credit, including the Housing Element, must be made online through the official government website. You cannot claim by phone or post. Search for “Apply for Universal Credit” to find the correct GOV.UK site.
You’ll need to create an online account. Remember to write down your username and password securely.
Step 2: Complete the Application The online application will take you through several sections. Be thorough and accurate. When you get to the section on housing costs, this is where you apply for the Housing Element. You will need to provide:
· Your rent amount.
· How often you pay rent (e.g., weekly or monthly).
· Your landlord’s name and contact address.
Step 3: Prove Your Identity You will need to verify your identity online as part of the process. If you can’t do this online, you may be instructed to do it at a Jobcentre Plus office.
Step 4: The Interview at the Jobcentre After submitting your online claim, you will usually be required to attend an interview at your local Jobcentre Plus. This is to confirm the details of your claim and to create your “Claimant Commitment.”
Step 5: Provide Evidence of Your Rent Agreement This is a critical step. To receive the Housing Element, you must provide written evidence of your rental liability. You need to submit this through your online Universal Credit journal. Acceptable evidence includes:
· A tenancy agreement.
· A rent statement from your landlord.
· A letter from your landlord confirming your tenancy and the rent amount.
· A rent book.
Without this evidence, your Housing Element will not be paid.
Step 6: Attend Your First Assessment Period Universal Credit is assessed monthly, from the date you first claim. This is called your assessment period. Your first payment will arrive approximately five weeks after you make your claim.
What If You Need Help Applying? If you struggle with online forms or find the process confusing, help is available:
· Citizens Advice: They offer free, confidential support with benefit applications.
· Local council: Your council may have a welfare rights team.
· Ask your landlord: Supportive landlords like us at Rooms From The Heart can often provide a letter confirming your tenancy for your application.
Finding a Home First If you haven’t found a place to live yet, don’t worry. You can’t claim the Housing Element without a rent agreement, but you can start looking for landlords who accept Universal Credit.
We can help. Rooms From The Heart offers rooms in Southeast England specifically for those on Universal Credit. We can provide the documentation you need for your claim once you become a tenant.
Ready to find a home where you can easily apply for your Housing Element? Email us at info@roomsfromtheheart.com, call Thomas on 07810657502, or visit our website to use our quick contact form: www.roomsfromtheheart.com.
Understanding the Universal Credit Assessment Process and Payment Timeline
“You’ll get paid once a month.” It sounds simple, but the Universal Credit assessment process can be confusing and the wait for the first payment can be a challenge. This blog explains exactly how the monthly assessment works, what to expect, and how to manage your money during the transition, so you can budget for your rent and living costs with confidence.
What is an Assessment Period? Your Universal Credit is calculated and paid monthly. Each month-long chunk of time is called an assessment period. It starts on the date of your claim and ends on the day before your next monthly date.
Example: If you applied on the 15th of May, your first assessment period would run from May 15th to June 14th. Your next one would be June 15th to July 14th, and so on.
How Your Payment is Calculated During each assessment period, the DWP looks at:
- Your standard allowance (the basic amount for your circumstances).
- Any additional elements you’re entitled to (e.g., Housing Element, PIP).
- Your earned income (from work) and any other unearned income.
- Any deductions (e.g., for an advance payment, debt repayments, or sanctions).
Your final payment is: (Standard Allowance + Additional Elements) – (Income + Deductions)
The Timeline: Your First Payment This is the most important timeline to understand, as the first wait is the longest.
· Day 1: You make your claim online.
· Around Day 7-10: You attend your interview at the Jobcentre.
· Day 29: Your first assessment period ends.
· Day 35 (± a few days): Your first Universal Credit payment should arrive in your bank account.
This means it typically takes around five weeks to receive your first payment. You must budget for this gap.
Budgeting for the Five-Week Wait Planning for this initial period is crucial to avoid falling behind on essential bills like rent.
· Apply for an Advance Payment: This is a loan that you can apply for on the day you claim Universal Credit. It can cover up to 100% of your first estimated payment, but you must pay it back from your future UC payments over a period of up to 24 months.
· Speak to Your Landlord: A good landlord will understand this delay. At Rooms From The Heart, we work with our new tenants to create a manageable payment plan for the first month, as we know the system well.
Subsequent Payments After your first payment, your UC will be paid on the same date each month (or the nearest working day before if it falls on a weekend). It’s vital to create a monthly budget that aligns with this payment date, ensuring your rent and bills are always covered.
Reporting Changes in Your Assessment Period Any change in your circumstances (like starting a job or your rent increasing) must be reported immediately through your online journal. The change will be applied in the assessment period in which you report it.
How a Supportive Landlord Makes a Difference We know the assessment periods inside and out. We help our tenants plan for their first payment and understand their budgeting responsibilities. We ensure that the process of paying your rent is straightforward and stress-free.
Struggling to understand how you’ll manage your rent during the first assessment period? Talk to us. We’re here to help. Contact Thomas on 07810657502 or email info@roomsfromtheheart.com. You can also learn more about our tenant-friendly approach on our website: www.roomsfromtheheart.com.
Finding DSS Rooms in Tottenham Hale: A Comprehensive Area Guide
Tottenham Hale, located in North London, is a vibrant and well-connected area that offers a mix of urban energy and community spirit. For those over 35 on Universal Credit, finding a understanding landlord here can be a challenge. This guide explores the housing landscape in Tottenham Hale, the local amenities, and how you can find a stable and affordable room in this thriving community.
Why Consider Tottenham Hale? Tottenham Hale has undergone significant regeneration, making it an increasingly popular place to live.
· Excellent Transport Links: Tottenham Hale station is a major transport hub, with Victoria line tube services (reaching Oxford Circus in 15 minutes) and national rail services. It’s also a gateway to Stansted Airport via the Stansted Express.
· Local Amenities: The area boasts the Tottenham Hale Retail Park for shopping, a weekly market, and the beautiful Tottenham Marshes for walks and nature.
· Community Vibe: With a diverse community and ongoing development, the area has a real sense of upward momentum.
The Housing Market in Tottenham Hale The area offers a range of housing, from modern new-build apartments to more traditional Victorian and Edwardian houses that are often converted into Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs). While London prices are always a consideration, Tottenham Hale can offer more affordable options compared to central London postcodes.
Understanding “DSS” in Tottenham Hale The term “DSS” is still used to describe landlords who accept tenants receiving housing benefits like Universal Credit. While some landlords are hesitant, there are providers in the area, like Rooms From The Heart, who specialize in offering quality, furnished rooms to those on benefits.
When searching, use terms like:
· “DSS rooms Tottenham Hale”
· “Universal Credit accepted Tottenham”
· “Supported housing North London”
What to Look for in a Rental Beyond just accepting benefits, a good landlord should offer:
· A clear and fair tenancy agreement.
· A well-maintained and safe property.
· Responsive communication for repairs and issues.
· An understanding of the Universal Credit system and payment timelines.
Local Resources and Support
· Haringey Council: The local authority website has information on housing advice and support for residents.
· Tottenham Green Leisure Centre: A great local facility for fitness and wellbeing.
· The Beehive: A popular local pub and community hub.
How Rooms From The Heart Supports Tottenham Hale Tenants We are proud to offer quality accommodation in the Tottenham Hale area for adults over 35. We provide:
· Clean, furnished rooms in safe, shared houses.
· A landlord who understands Universal Credit assessments and payments.
· All-inclusive rents where possible to make budgeting simpler.
· A supportive and respectful living environment.
Are you looking for a stable and understanding home in the Tottenham Hale area? We may have a room for you. Contact us today to discuss your needs. Call Thomas on 07810657502, email info@roomsfromtheheart.com, or fill out the quick form on our website to check availability: www.roomsfromtheheart.com.
Tottenham Hale is a fantastic place to live with plenty to offer. Don’t be discouraged in your search for housing—with the right approach and the right landlord, you can find a secure and comfortable room in this dynamic part of London.
Affordable Shared Housing in North London: Your Complete Guide
North London offers a diverse range of neighbourhoods, each with its own unique character and community. For adults over 35 looking for affordable shared housing, particularly those on Universal Credit, it can be a great option. This comprehensive guide covers key areas like Edmonton Green, Tottenham, Wood Green, and more, providing insights into finding a room that fits your budget and lifestyle.
Why Choose Shared Housing in North London? Shared housing, or Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), is a popular and practical choice. It allows you to:
· Afford a room in a great location that might be out of reach for a whole property.
· Live in a furnished home without the upfront cost of buying furniture.
· Share utility bills, often included in the rent, simplifying your budget.
· Enjoy a sense of community with other professional housemates.
Key North London Areas for Affordable Housing We focus on several key areas known for their connectivity and more affordable rental markets:
· Edmonton Green: A major shopping and transport hub with a strong sense of community. Excellent bus links and train services into central London.
· Tottenham: A vast and vibrant area, home to Tottenham Hale (excellent tube links) and Bruce Grove (overground services). Rich in culture and green spaces like Tottenham Marshes.
· Wood Green: A bustling town centre with a large shopping mall (The Mall Wood Green), cinema, and great transport via the Piccadilly line.
· Bounds Green: A slightly quieter residential area with a village feel, also on the Piccadilly line, making it ideal for those who want a calmer base.
Finding a Landlord Who Accepts Universal Credit The search for a “DSS-friendly” landlord is a common challenge. Be persistent and use the right search terms online. Crucially, seek out landlords who don’t just accept benefits but understand the system—including the initial five-week wait for the first payment and the monthly assessment periods.
A good landlord will be willing to provide a tenancy agreement quickly so you can provide evidence for your Housing Element claim.
Your Budget: What to Expect Rents vary by area and the quality of the accommodation. When budgeting, remember:
· Your Universal Credit Housing Element is likely based on the Local Housing Allowance (LHA) rate for a one-bedroom property in that area.
· Ask what’s included. All-inclusive rents (covering council tax, water, gas, and electricity) make budgeting on a fixed income much easier.
· Factor in your travel costs to work or appointments based on the location.
How Rooms From The Heart Provides North London Solutions We specialise in offering clean, safe, and affordable shared housing for over 35s across North London, including the areas mentioned above. We are experts in working with tenants on Universal Credit and PIP.
We offer:
· Properties in multiple North London locations.
· Furnished rooms with all essential amenities.
· Clear, all-inclusive pricing to avoid unexpected bills.
· A straightforward and supportive application process.
Ready to find your affordable room in North London? We can help. Get in touch with us to discuss what you’re looking for. Email info@roomsfromtheheart.com, call Thomas on 07810657502 for a chat, or apply directly via our website: www.roomsfromtheheart.com.
Understanding PIP Eligibility and How It Supports Your Housing Application
If you receive Personal Independence Payment (PIP), you already know it provides vital financial help for the extra costs of living with a long-term health condition or disability. But did you know that being awarded PIP can also be a key to unlocking certain types of housing support? This blog explains how your PIP eligibility can strengthen your housing application and help you find a suitable home.
What is PIP? A Quick Recap PIP is a benefit for people aged 16 to State Pension age who need help with daily living activities, getting around, or both. It is not means-tested, so your income and savings don’t affect your eligibility. It’s based on how your condition affects you, not the condition itself.
There are two components:
- Daily Living Component: For help with everyday tasks like preparing food, washing, or communicating.
- Mobility Component: For help with planning and following a journey or moving around.
You can be awarded one or both components, at either a standard or enhanced rate.
How PIP Can Help with Housing While PIP itself is not a housing benefit, it does two crucial things:
- It Provides Additional Income: The extra money can help you afford a higher rent or save for a deposit, giving you more options in the private rental market.
- It Demonstrates Support Needs: For landlords and housing providers who offer supported accommodation, a PIP award is clear evidence that you have assessed needs that they are equipped to support. This can make your application much stronger.
PIP and Universal Credit: The Combination If you are on Universal Credit and also receive PIP, you may be entitled to additional amounts within your UC payment. Furthermore, receiving PIP often means you are not subject to the same work search requirements as other UC claimants, reducing pressure and allowing you to focus on your health and finding stable housing.
Finding Housing as a PIP Recipient When searching for a room, look for landlords and agencies that understand the needs of disabled people. You should feel comfortable discussing:
· Accessibility: Are there stairs? Is the shower walk-in? Is the property close to public transport?
· Supportive Environment: Is the landlord patient and understanding? Are the other tenants respectful?
· Financial Understanding: Does the landlord understand that PIP is a secure, regular payment?
How Rooms From The Heart Welcomes PIP Recipients At Rooms From The Heart, we have extensive experience housing tenants who receive PIP. We understand that a stable, stress-free home is a crucial part of managing your wellbeing.
We offer:
· A supportive and non-judgmental environment.
· Properties chosen with accessibility and comfort in mind.
· A simple process that respects your circumstances.
If you receive PIP and are looking for a understanding home in Southeast England, we would be happy to talk to you. Contact us for a friendly conversation about your needs. Email info@roomsfromtheheart.com or call Thomas on 07810657502. You can also learn more on our website: www.roomsfromtheheart.com.
Balham Rooms for Benefit Recipients: Your Essential Area Guide
Nestled in South London, Balham offers a perfect blend of village charm and city convenience. With its excellent transport links, green spaces, and bustling high street, it’s a highly desirable place to live. For those on Universal Credit or other benefits, finding a room here might seem difficult, but it is possible. This guide explores what Balham has to offer and how to find a supportive landlord in the area.
The Vibe of Balham Balham has a friendly, neighbourhood feel with a thriving community. Balham High Road is packed with independent cafes, pubs, restaurants, and shops, alongside larger supermarkets like Waitrose and Sainsbury’s. The iconic Balham Bowls Club is a beloved venue for music and comedy, and Tooting Bec Common is right on your doorstep for walks, runs, and relaxation.
Excellent Transport Connections Balham is incredibly well-connected, making it ideal for part-time workers or those travelling to appointments.
· Tube: Balham station is on the Northern line (Zone 3), with direct services to the City and the West End.
· Rail: Balham also has a mainline station with services to Victoria and Clapham Junction.
· Buses: Numerous bus routes connect Balham to surrounding areas like Clapham, Tooting, and Streatham.
The Rental Market in Balham As a popular area, rental prices in Balham can be higher than in other parts of South London. However, the shared housing (HMO) market provides more affordable options for single occupants. The key is finding a landlord who understands the benefits system and is willing to accept tenants on Universal Credit.
Searching for “DSS” Rooms in Balham Be persistent in your search. Use online property portals and filter for “DSS accepted” or “housing benefit accepted.” Be prepared to be upfront and honest about your circumstances. A good landlord will value a reliable tenant who communicates well, regardless of their income source.
Local Amenities and Support
· Balham Library: A great local resource.
· Tooting Bec Lido: The famous outdoor swimming pool is just a short walk away.
· Healthcare: There are several GP surgeries and pharmacies in the area.
How Rooms From The Heart Operates in Balham We are pleased to offer rooms in the Balham area for mature tenants on benefits. We believe everyone deserves to live in a great area, and we provide a supportive bridge to make that possible.
Our Balham properties offer:
· Great locations within walking distance of the tube and amenities.
· Housemates who are also over 35, creating a calm living environment.
· A landlord who will work with you to ensure your UC housing payments are managed smoothly.
Interested in a room in Balham? Get in touch with us to check our current availability. You can call Thomas on 07810657502, email us at info@roomsfromtheheart.com, or apply directly through the form on our website: www.roomsfromtheheart.com.
Don’t write off Balham because of its popularity. With the right approach and a specialist landlord, you can find an affordable room in this fantastic part of South London.
Managing Rent Payments on Universal Credit: A Practical Guide to Budgeting
One of the biggest worries for tenants on Universal Credit is managing the single monthly payment to cover all expenses, especially rent. Falling behind on rent can cause immense stress and put your home at risk. This guide provides practical, actionable tips for budgeting your Universal Credit payment effectively, ensuring your rent is always paid on time and you can enjoy peace of mind in your home.
Understand Your Payment and Deductions The first step is to know exactly what is coming in and what is going out. Log into your Universal Credit journal regularly. Your monthly statement will show:
· Your total entitlement (standard allowance + housing element + any other elements).
· Any deductions (e.g., for an advance payment, overpayment, or sanction).
· Your final payment amount.
Know this number inside and out.
Create a Simple Monthly Budget As soon as your payment arrives, prioritise your essential bills. A simple budget could look like this:
- Rent: This is your top priority. Set aside the money for your rent immediately.
- Utilities: If not included in your rent, set aside money for gas, electricity, water, and council tax.
- Food: Plan your meals and set a strict weekly food budget.
- Travel: Budget for buses, tubes, or fuel if you need to travel for work or appointments.
- Other Essentials: Phone bill, internet, etc.
What’s left is for other spending. There are many free budgeting apps and tools available to help you track this.
Consider a Separate Bank Account for Rent A very effective strategy is to open a separate, basic bank account. As soon as your Universal Credit payment comes in, transfer your exact rent amount into this account. This physically separates the money from your spending money, making it much harder to accidentally spend your rent on other things.
Communicate with Your Landlord If you are ever worried you might be late with a payment, talk to your landlord immediately. Good landlords, like us at Rooms From The Heart, would always rather know about a problem in advance than be surprised by a missed payment. We can often work with you to find a solution, such as agreeing on a slight delay or a payment plan.
Set Up a Standing Order If you are confident in your budgeting, you can set up a standing order to pay your rent automatically on the same day each month. This automates your biggest responsibility and ensures you never forget.
How We Make Rent Management Easier We design our service to reduce financial stress for our tenants:
· All-Inclusive Rents: Many of our rents include all utilities and council tax, so you have one simple, predictable payment to make each month without worrying about fluctuating bills.
· Understanding and Flexibility: We understand the UC system intimately. We know when payments are due and we work with tenants who communicate openly with us.
If you’re looking for a landlord who will work with you to manage your rent payments smoothly, look no further. Contact Rooms From The Heart to find a stress-free home. Call Thomas on 07810657502, email info@roomsfromtheheart.com, or apply via our website: www.roomsfromtheheart.com.
Supported Accommodation in the Edmonton Green Area: Finding Stability and Support
The Edmonton Green area in North London is more than just a postcode; it’s a diverse and well-connected community. For those seeking more than just a room—those needing a stable and supportive environment—finding the right accommodation is key. This guide explores what supported accommodation means in the Edmonton Green area and how it can provide a foundation for rebuilding independence.
What is Supported Accommodation? Supported accommodation refers to housing that provides more than just a roof over your head. It often includes:
· A Supportive Landlord: A landlord or managing agent who understands complex needs, such as those related to health, benefits, or past housing insecurity.
· A Safe Community: Housemates who are in similar situations, creating a community of mutual respect.
· A Stable Foundation: The security of a medium-to-long-term tenancy, allowing you to focus on other areas of your life without the fear of sudden eviction or rent hikes.
It’s different from emergency hostels or temporary B&Bs, as it is designed to be a proper home.
Why Choose the Edmonton Green Area? Edmonton Green is a fantastic location for supported housing because of its:
· Connectivity: Edmonton Green station has overground services to Liverpool Street and numerous bus routes across North London.
· Amenities: The area is centred around a large shopping centre with major supermarkets, a market, and all the essential shops you need.
· Community Spirit: It has a strong and diverse local community with various community centres and support networks.
Who is it For? Supported accommodation is ideal for people who may need a little more understanding and stability, including:
· Adults over 35 on Universal Credit.
· Individuals receiving PIP who would benefit from a managed environment.
· Those transitioning from homelessness or temporary accommodation.
· Part-time workers looking for an affordable and secure base.
How Rooms From The Heart Provides Support in Edmonton Green Our model is built on the principles of supported accommodation. We offer properties in the Edmonton Green area that are more than just a room.
We provide:
· Understanding: We have extensive knowledge of Universal Credit and PIP, and we guide our tenants through the process.
· Stability: We offer fair, long-term agreements so you can settle in without worry.
· Safety: All our properties are well-maintained and secure.
· Respect: We treat all our tenants with dignity and focus on creating a peaceful home environment.
If you are looking for supported accommodation in the Edmonton Green area, we are here to help. We offer a friendly, no-pressure conversation to see if we can support you. Contact us today by calling Thomas on 07810657502 or emailing info@roomsfromtheheart.com. You can also express your interest via our website form: www.roomsfromtheheart.com.
Universal Credit and Working Part-Time: What You Need to Know
Meta Description: Working part-time and on Universal Credit? Learn how your earnings affect your payments, your housing rights, and how to find accommodation that supports your work. Read our guide.
Universal Credit and Working Part-Time: What You Need to Know for Housing
Balancing part-time work with Universal Credit can feel like a tricky tightrope walk. You want to work and earn, but you’re worried about how it will affect your benefit payments and your housing situation. The good news is that the system is designed to support you as you work. This guide explains how it all works together and how to find a landlord who will support your journey into work.
How Earnings Affect Your Universal Credit Universal Credit uses a taper rate to gradually reduce your payment as you earn more. This means you won’t suddenly lose all your benefits when you start a job.
· You have a work allowance if you either get help with housing costs or have limited capability for work. This is an amount you can earn each month before your UC starts to reduce.
· For every £1 you earn above your work allowance, your Universal Credit is reduced by 55p. This means you are always better off working, as you keep 45p of every pound you earn.
You must report your earnings accurately through your online journal every month.
The Impact on Your Housing Element Your Housing Element is part of your total Universal Credit award. Therefore, as your overall UC payment decreases due to earnings, your housing support decreases proportionally. It is crucial to:
· Report income changes immediately to avoid an overpayment.
· Recalculate your budget each month based on your new total income (wages + UC) to ensure you can still afford your rent.
Your Rights as a Working Tenant You have the right to work while renting, regardless of being on benefits. A good landlord will encourage and support your efforts to work. You should not face discrimination because you work part-time and receive Universal Credit to top up your income.
Finding a Landlord Who Supports Workers Look for a landlord who:
· Understands the fluctuating nature of income when you work part-time.
· Values the fact that you are employed, seeing it as a sign of reliability.
· Is flexible and communicative if your income changes from month to month.
How Rooms From The Heart Supports Working Tenants We actively encourage our tenants to work if they are able. We believe that having a job, even part-time, is fantastic for wellbeing, independence, and self-esteem.
We support our working tenants by:
· Providing a stable home base so you can focus on your job.
· Understanding that your monthly income might vary and being open to discussions about your rent payments.
· Offering all-inclusive rents to make budgeting with a variable income much simpler.
If you are working part-time and need a landlord who will get behind you, we would love to talk. Contact Rooms From The Heart to find a home that supports your goals. Call Thomas on 07810657502, email us at info@roomsfromtheheart.com, or apply through our website: www.roomsfromtheheart.com.
Work and Universal Credit can successfully coexist. With careful budgeting and a supportive landlord, you can build a stable life that includes both employment and a secure home.