Universal Credit

What is Universal Credit and how does it work?

Universal Credit is administered and paid for by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). Find out more on the DWP website.

Do I apply for Universal Credit or Housing Benefit?

If you have reached state pension age, you need to apply for Housing Benefit. 

If you are working aged, you can apply for Housing Benefit if you live in:

1. Supported Accommodation (also known as Specified Accommodation) you can still claim Housing Benefit
2. Temporary Accommodation, that is accommodation provided to you by the council if you are homeless

For anyone else of working age, you must apply for Universal Credit instead.

What if I already claim Housing Benefit?

If you already claim Housing Benefit and have a change in your circumstances you may have to claim Universal Credit. You will not have to claim Universal Credit if you move to a new, rented accommodation within the Bradford district.

If you don’t have a change in circumstances you may be switched to Universal Credit at some point in the future. More information about this will be available nearer the time.

Help with Council Tax

Important - you need to know this if you apply for Universal Credit

If you are a Council Tax payer and are on a low income, you may get help with your Council Tax bill through the Council Tax Reduction scheme. To apply, you must complete a Council Tax Reduction application form.

Important: the DWP will not accept an application for Council Tax Reduction or Discretionary Housing Payments - you must apply directly to the council as soon as you can.

Help with housing costs

If you are on a low income, you may be eligible for help with your housing costs from the Discretionary Housing Payments scheme. To apply, you must complete a Discretionary Housing Payments application form.

Important: the DWP will not accept your application for Discretionary Housing Payment - you must apply directly to the council as soon as you can.