Housing benefit is a national welfare benefit, which helps people on a low income pay their rent. Local councils run the housing benefit scheme using Government rules.
Housing benefit is a means tested benefit, the amount of benefit we will pay depends on a the following: the income, savings and investments of you (and your partner if you have one), the number of children who live with you, other people that live with you and whether you or your family have special circumstances through illness or disability.
You can get housing benefit (sometimes called rent rebate or rent allowance) if you rent your home from the council, from a housing association (sometimes called a registered social landlord) or from a private landlord.
Housing benefit can only be paid on the actual rent that is charged. Some service charges, such as shared cleaning or gardening, can also be paid, but personal services, such as a separate garage or washing cannot.
However, if you qualify for housing benefit under the Local housing allowance scheme personal services, such as washing, water rates and heating are taken into account in the calculation of entitlement. Our contact details can be found below, our fax number is 023 8083 4426.
For appointments and interpreter requests please contact Gateway using the details below:
Gateway
One Guildhall Square
Southampton
Hampshire
SO14 7FP
Tel: 023 8083 2166
E-mail: gateway@southampton.gov.uk
Fax: 023 8083 4349
Opening Hours
Monday, Tuesday and Friday: 0830-1730
Wednesday: 0930-1730
Thursday: 0830-1900
Please note we are closed on all statutory bank holidays.
Southampton City Council
