I am in receipt of benefits - why have I been sent a rent arrears letter when Ido not pay rent?

Sep 16, 2026

Upload by Fahsai

Explains why a tenant who receives benefits may still receive a rent arrears letter, focusing on housing cost payment processes. For Housing Benefit, it describes how the council pays rent directly to Waverley Housing, and how arrears can appear if benefit is not paid for any reason. For Universal Credit, it stresses the tenant’s responsibility to keep a personal journal up to date and to instruct the Department of Work and Pensions on rent payments. It also clarifies that arrears letters indicate issues with a claim and encourages contacting Housing Benefit or DWP to resolve.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryLetters

FormatPDF

Pages1

AccessFree to download

Why a rent arrears letter may be sent

Housing Benefit payment responsibility

Universal Credit journal and DWP instructions

What arrears letters mean and next steps

FAQs

Why can I receive a rent arrears letter if I receive Housing Benefit?

The council pays rent directly to Waverley Housing only when Housing Benefit is paid. If the benefit has not been paid for any reason, the rent account may show arrears.

What are my responsibilities if I receive Universal Credit?

You must keep your personal journal up to date and instruct the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) through your journal about the amount you must pay towards your rent.

Does receiving an arrears letter mean my rent payment is wrong?

Receiving arrears letters indicates something may be wrong with your benefit claim. Contact Housing Benefit or DWP so the issue can be resolved.

Sep 16, 2026

Upload by Fahsai