Housing Benefit: Britons can gain vital help with important housing costs in key ways

This includes recent payslips, bank statements for the last two full months, and proof of income.

People will also need to provide identity verification through two separate documents such as a photo card driving licence, passport, utility bill or birth certificate.

And those renting from a private landlord may also be required to present their rent book or a letter from a landlord confirming a person’s tenancy. 

Housing Benefit is ultimately a legacy benefit, with some needing to claim Universal Credit instead.

However, for those who do need to claim, applications can be made either through a local council, or as part of a Pension Credit claim – if eligible.