Rent is a priority payment because you risk losing your home if you do not pay it. Falling behind on rent can lead to eviction and make it harder to secure a new tenancy in the future.
If you are struggling to afford your rent, tell your landlord as early as possible and get free, independent advice.
Ways to manage your money
- Check your budget: Use MoneyHelper’s free budget planner to calculate your household income and spending.
- Maximise your income: Check if you are eligible for extra financial support using an independent benefits calculator on GOV.UK.
- Get free debt advice: If you have multiple debts or cannot afford living essentials, speak to a specialist debt adviser before making any agreements with creditors.
Free debt and budgeting support
You do not need to pay for debt advice. Contact these free, confidential services:
- Citizens Advice Thanet: Free, local help with debt management, benefits checks, and budgeting over the phone or in person.
- StepChange Debt Charity: Free online debt counselling, repayment plans, and advice on breathing space schemes.
- National Debtline: Free, expert debt advice and fact sheets online or by phone.
- Shelter housing and debt advice: Specialist advice if rent arrears put you at immediate risk of losing your home.
Help with rent if you are on a low income
You do not need to be out of work to claim benefits. If you are working on a low income, or if your circumstances have changed, you may qualify for support towards your rent.
You can use an independent benefits calculator on GOV.UK to see what payments you could get.
What you need before you start
To get an accurate result, have details ready for everyone in your household:
- Current income (including recent payslips)
- Savings and investments
- Any existing benefits or pension payments
- Your current rent amount
- Your latest council tax bill
Talk to your landlord as soon as possible
If you are struggling to pay your rent, contact your landlord straight away. Explaining your situation early makes it easier to agree on a realistic payment plan and can prevent your landlord from taking legal action.
If you already have rent arrears
Before you contact your landlord to agree a repayment plan:
- Work out what you can afford: Review your household income and essential expenses to calculate how much spare money you have each week or month.
- Make a realistic offer: Only offer an amount you know you can afford on top of your normal rent. Do not agree to payments you cannot keep up with long term.
- Get the agreement in writing: Ask your landlord to confirm the payment plan by email or letter so you both have a clear record.
- Keep to the agreed payments: Pay the agreed amount on time. If your income drops or your costs change, tell your landlord immediately to review the plan.