Housing Benefit is to help those on a low income to pay their rent. Council Tax Benefit is to help those on a low income to pay their Council Tax.
Both benefits can be paid at the same time to someone who is liable to pay rent and Council Tax.
Anyone who is liable to pay rent and/or Council Tax and who claims Income Support or Income Based Job Seekers Allowance should make an application for Housing/Council Tax Benefit.
Anyone else who has a low income or who feels their personal circumstances are such that they feel they may be entitled to help should make a claim for benefit.
Entitlement to these benefits will be based upon your rent and Council Tax charge, your personal income, your family size and household members. If you have other adults living in your dwelling the benefit entitlement may be reduced by means of a non-dependant deduction. The level of that individual’s financial circumstances dictates the level of this reduction.