How Benefit is Paid
Housing Benefit
If you are a Council Tenant, we will pay your Housing Benefit straight into your rent account at the beginning of every rent week.
If you are a Housing Association or private tenant, we will make a payment by BACS every four weeks. Payment to your landlord can only be made in exceptional circumstances and if you are likely to have difficulty paying your rent. We have a vulnerability policy 
(461 KB) which identifies the circumstances in which Housing Benefit payments can be made to a third party.
Universal Credit
Universal Credit is paid once a month, usually into your bank, building society or credit union account. If your payment includes an amount for housing costs you will need to pay your Landlord direct. It usually takes around 5 weeks to get your first payment. After the first payment you will be paid on the same date of every month. If you are not able to open a bank, building society or credit union account call the Universal Credit 
helpline who may be able to offer an alternative payment method.
Council Tax Support
Council Tax Support is always added to the Council Tax account of the liable person. The Council Tax section will ensure that you receive a new bill every time that you have support credited to your account or your amount of support changes.