Find out about the best ways to manage your money, changes to benefits and where you can get more help and advice.
Council rents are among the cheapest in the city, but it’s still expensive to run a home.
Changes to benefits
The government has made a lot of changes to the amount of benefits that people get, and the way they’re paid.
Some of the changes are as follows:
- many new tenants are being asked to claim Universal Credit, which is different from the benefits people got before
- people who are working will sometimes need to claim Universal Credit which can help with the cost of housing, children and living
- when you start your tenancy, we'll help you apply for benefits
- anyone applying for benefits, unless they are a pensioner or severely disabled, may receive less money than they have in the past
- larger families will be the most affected
Whether you're affected by these changes or not, rent payments are very important because you can lose your home if you don’t pay rent.
Money management
Brighton & Hove City Council has a lot of support available for people who have problems with money.
It’s important to make sure you know what you're spending and what you're earning or receiving in benefits. This can help you avoid problems later on.
For advice on rent, benefits or money:
- phone 01273 293 224
- send an email to housing.incomemanagement@brighton-hove.gov.uk
How to budget
Budgeting means not spending more than you have.
If you're struggling to make ends meet, you can find advice on how to save money, make money and manage your money better on the Moneyworks website.
How to get a bank account
You must have a bank account if you want to claim benefits.
A bank account means you can pay your rent more easily by setting up a Standing Order or Direct Debit.
It’s free and easy to get a bank account. If you don't have one already, you can get help to get a bank account from Moneyworks.
How to save and borrow money
If you borrow money it can be very expensive, especially if you choose to borrow money from payday loan companies, who charge a lot of interest.
You can get advice on how to save and borrow money from Moneyworks.
How to apply for benefits
Benefits are paid to some people to help them pay their rent and bills.
You can find out if you can get benefits, and get help applying for benefits from Moneyworks.
Council Tax discounts and reductions
All tenants must pay Council Tax.
You can apply for Council Tax discounts if you receive benefits, have a low income or live alone. If you live on your own you pay less so make sure you apply for a single-person Council Tax discount.
You can apply for a Council Tax reduction if you:
- do not earn much money
- are on benefits
- receive a pension
Get help and advice
For advice about how to budget, how to get a bank account, how to save or borrow money, or about the changes to benefits, phone Moneyworks on 01273 809 288 or freephone 0800 988 7037.