How to claim Housing Cost Element with an Absent Joint Tenancy

tobs

Dear community,

please I have a question regarding claiming UC with an absent joint tenancy, I took up the tenancy with a family who had no interest in the apartment but my income was not enough to rent solely. I have been covering this rent now for 8months and it took up 90% of my salary, it’s hard to provide my 2yo. What do I need to show to prove to UC that I am liable for full rent? Please advise , thank you. 🙏

Kimmy87

Will your Landlord issue a new sole tenancy in your name?

You can then submit the change to UC and use the written tenancy as proof of your housing costs.

tobs

I doubt landlord will issue a new tenancy, due to legal and business aspect of it. Agent may want to do another credit check and affordability which I have fallen into debt due to covering the rent and will not pass credit check or affordability. But I’m sure they don’t mind to be paid by Benefits as it’s stated on the tenancy. If I come out clean to UC would it be approved ?

Kimmy87

There is nothing to lose by trying but I would expect they'll want some kind of proof to approve payment for 100% of the rent.

tobs

yeah i don’t know if 8 months bank statements and receipts of previous rental payment would be enough.