Falling behind on rent can feel overwhelming, but you are not alone and there are real solutions available. From grants and charitable support to formal debt solutions, getting the right advice now can help you keep your home and find a way forward.
You cannot be evicted overnight
Landlords must follow a legal process through the courts
Grants and charities can help
Free grants are available that do not need to be repaid
Rent arrears can be included in an IVA
Legally stops enforcement and can write off remaining debt
Act early for the best outcome
The sooner you seek help, the more options you have
Rent arrears affect thousands of tenants across the UK every year. Whether you have lost your job, had a change in circumstances, or are simply finding it harder to make ends meet, falling behind on rent does not make you a bad person. It is a situation many people face, and there are clear steps you can take.
The most important thing is to act quickly. Speaking to your landlord, contacting your council, and getting free debt advice can all help prevent the situation from getting worse. Many tenants do not realise how much support is available, from emergency grants to formal debt solutions that can include rent arrears.
This guide explains all the help available to you, including grants to clear rent arrears, charities that help pay rent arrears, and debt solutions that can protect you from eviction while you get back on your feet.
Understanding the process helps you know where you stand and when to act. Remember, you have rights at every stage.
Your landlord will usually contact you by letter, email, or phone to discuss the missed payment and try to agree a plan.
If arrears continue, your landlord may send a formal letter warning of further action. This is your chance to negotiate a repayment plan.
Your landlord may serve a legal notice seeking possession. For Section 8, they must prove grounds such as 2 months or more rent arrears.
If you do not leave or reach an agreement, the landlord must apply to court. The court considers your circumstances before granting a possession order.
Only county court bailiffs can carry out an eviction. Your landlord cannot change the locks or remove your belongings without a court order.
Wherever you are in this process, there are options available to help you.
Check your optionsThere are grants, charities, and council schemes that can help you clear rent arrears or prevent them from growing. Many of these do not need to be repaid.
Your local council can provide emergency payments to help cover rent shortfalls or clear arrears. These are available to anyone receiving Housing Benefit or Universal Credit housing costs.
Organisations like Shelter, Turn2us, and StepChange offer grants and emergency funds for people struggling with rent. These do not need to be repaid and can clear smaller arrears.
If you are not already claiming, Universal Credit can help towards your rent. If your housing costs are not covering your full rent, you may be able to request a review or top up.
Many councils run local welfare assistance schemes that can provide emergency help with housing costs. These are separate from Discretionary Housing Payments and can be applied for directly.
Free Grants to Help With Rent Arrears UK
Many people do not realise that free grants are available to help clear rent arrears. Charities that help pay rent arrears include Shelter, Citizens Advice, StepChange, and local community organisations. Your council may also have emergency funds specifically for tenants at risk of losing their home. You do not need to face this alone.
If grants and council support are not enough, formal debt solutions can include your rent arrears and provide legal protection. Here are the main options.
A legally binding agreement where rent arrears are included with other debts. You make one affordable payment for 60 months, and remaining debt is written off.
Best for: Tenants with £2,500+ total debt who can afford £100+ per month
Learn moreCombine rent arrears with other debts into one manageable monthly payment. Your advisor negotiates with creditors on your behalf.
Best for: Tenants who can afford regular payments but need lower amounts
Learn moreA government scheme giving you 60 days legal protection from enforcement action. Interest and charges are frozen while you get advice and find a solution.
Best for: Anyone needing time to arrange a longer term solution
Learn moreFor tenants with debts under £30,000, low income, and few assets. After 12 months, qualifying debts including rent arrears are written off completely.
Best for: Low income tenants with limited assets and debts under £30,000
Learn moreNot sure which solution is right for your situation?
Get free adviceFind answers to common questions about rent arrears, grants, and your options for getting help.
Our advisors can help you understand your rent arrears options and find the right solution.
Get Help NowYou do not have to face rent arrears alone. Whether you need help finding grants, negotiating with your landlord, or setting up a debt solution, our free assessment takes just 2 minutes and could help you keep your home.
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60 days of legal protection from creditors while you get advice and find a solution.
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