If you get Universal Credit or Housing Benefit, the maximum amount you can get for rent is based on where you live and the number of bedrooms you're eligible for. It's calculated using Local Housing Allowance (LHA) rates.  

This amount will not always cover your full rent.

When you know how many bedrooms you're eligible for, you can find your LHA rates.

Work out how many bedrooms you're eligible fo (Directgov). 

The LHA rates are different in each area. If you change your search area, remember to recheck the LHA rate.

Find your LHA rate (Directgov).

You should also make a note of:

  • what type of property you could afford if you're on benefits or a low income
  • whether you need a furnished or unfurnished property
  • where you'd like to live

When you find a property, you'll usually need to pay a deposit to secure it. This is usually one month's rent, sometimes more, that you'll need to pay in advance. 

Shelter has information about options if you cannot afford a deposit or rent in advance.

You'll find more affordable properties outside London. Flats are cheaper than houses and shared accommodation is cheaper than self-contained properties.

If you're 60 or over and you'd like support to continue to live independently, you could apply for sheltered housing.