How benefit caps can affect tenants
The benefit cap limits the total amount of benefits that people of working-age can receive. It was introduced in April 2013 and continues to impact both tenants and landlords.
What is the benefit cap?
If your benefits exceed the cap:
- The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) reduces your Universal Credit, or
- Your local council reduces your Housing Benefit.
This may make it harder to pay your rent and meet your living costs.
Does the benefit cap affect me?
You may be affected if:
- Your benefits are due to exceed the cap
- You have children
- You live in an area with high private rents
Exemptions: The cap does not include if you live in a homeless hostel, refuge and most types of supported or temporary housing.
How much is the benefit cap?
The cap is different inside and outside London, and the rates have changed in the past.
- Check the latest benefit cap limits on the GOV.UK website.
What can I do if I’m affected?
1. Check if the cap applies to you
The benefit cap does not apply if you:
- Earn above a set amount each month (after tax and National Insurance)
- Claim certain disability or carer benefits
- Have reached state pension age
2. Apply for Discretionary Housing Payments (DHP)
If your Housing Benefit or Universal Credit housing costs do not cover your rent, you can apply to your council for a DHP.
3. Find emergency support
If you need help quickly for things like, food, bills, moving home, beds, or cookers, you can apply for help.
4. Ask your council for housing help
If your landlord threatens to evict you or you cannot afford to live in your home, you can contact the council for help.
5. Contact your MP
If you believe the benefit cap is applied incorrectly in your case, you can raise the issue with your MP.
You can also write to your MP to share your concerns about how the cap affects you.