Tenants borrowing money to cover rent - what help can you get if you’re struggling?

Millions of private renters have either borrowed money or taken out a loan to cover rent in the last year.

According to Citizens Advice, almost a third (32%) have had to resort to borrowing to keep a roof over their heads.

That works out to 3.5m people, including more than half a million families with children.

Many private renters are also going without in order to make ends meet.

Figures showed that more than a quarter (29%) have either cut back or gone without essentials so they can pay their rent.

And this figure rises to 38% among single parents.

What support is available for renters?

According to official figures, average private rents stood at £1,381 a month in April 2026.

That’s 3.5% higher than it was a year earlier.

And significantly, that’s higher than the rate of inflation and wage growth.

So if you’re struggling to keep up with rental costs, it’s important to know what help is out there.

Universal credit

Universal credit may include extra money to help people of working age with rent and service charges. 

This housing element is usually included in your monthly payment and paid directly to your landlord.

You can also apply for additional support from your universal credit if you're dealing with financial hardship.

Housing benefit

If you’re over state pension age, you might qualify for housing benefit through your local council. 

Some people under pension age may also be eligible, particularly if they live in supported or temporary housing.

The amount you receive depends on:

• your age
• where you live
• the size of your household

Discretionary housing payment (DHP)

If your rent is already partly covered by universal credit or housing benefit, you may be able to get a discretionary housing payment (DHP) - short-term payments that can help with rent or other housing costs.

You can apply for a DHP through your local council.

Charity grants

Organisations like Turn2us can help you find and apply for grants and other financial support from charities and local community groups.

See what benefits you can claim 

You might be entitled to some financial support to help with the cost of living.

Use our benefits calculator or give us a call to find out what you could claim.

It might be more than you think.

Get debt advice

If you’re struggling to repay the money you've borrowed, contact us for confidential, practical and impartial debt advice.