Cannot afford rent
I cannot afford to pay my rent. What can I do?
You may be able to receive help with housing costs by applying for Universal Credit, unless you:
- live in temporary accommodation arranged by Enfield Council
- live in supported accommodation
- are a pensioner
To apply, visit GOV.UK - Sign in to your Universal Credit account.
If you need to claim Housing Benefit, you can apply using our new claim form.
I already receive Housing Benefit or the housing element of Universal Credit but still cannot afford my rent. What are my options?
You may be eligible for a Housing Payment (HP).
Changes in circumstances
I’ve had a change in my circumstances. What should I do?
Email revs@enfield.gov.uk with details of the change and provide evidence.
Please do not send duplicate enquiries.
My benefit only increased from when I reported the change, not when it happened. Why?
You must report changes within one month.
Late notifications can only be applied from the Monday after you tell us, unless you had a good reason for the delay.
Payments and income information
How often is Housing Benefit paid?
- Private tenants: 4‑weekly or monthly in arrears, paid into your bank account
- Council tenants: Credited directly to your rent account
I’m self‑employed. What information do I need to provide?
Send your latest audited accounts. If these are not available, we can provide a profit and loss declaration form.
Include all business income and expenses for the last 6 to 12 months.
I’m on a zero‑hour contract and my earnings vary. What should I send?
Provide:
- the last 8 to 10 weeks of payslips if you are paid weekly
- the last 3 months if you are paid monthly
Tell us if overtime is regular or occasional.
I’m a student. What information is required?
Send your Student Finance letter and a breakdown of maintenance grants, for example, Parent Learning Allowance.
I work term‑time only. What information is needed?
Tell us your:
- contractual arrangement
- contracted hours
- salary payment schedule
Award queries
I do not agree with the amount of Housing Benefit I receive. What can I do?
Check the details used to calculate your benefit.
If anything looks incorrect, email revs@enfield.gov.uk to request a review and provide supporting evidence.
My award does not show allowances for all my children. Why?
You may be affected by the 2‑child limit.
Universal Credit
I receive Universal Credit. What changes must I report to you?
You must tell us if:
- your Universal Credit claim ends (if you receive Council Tax Support)
- your Universal Credit claim stops while you are still receiving Housing Benefit
You do not need to report changes in your Universal Credit amount if your claim continues.
For earnings issues, contact the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
Why does the Universal Credit amount on my notification look higher than what I actually receive?
Universal Credit notifications often show your total entitlement before deductions are applied.
If you are employed, deductions for earnings, advances, overpayments, or other recoveries may reduce the final amount you receive. These deductions are not always itemised on the notifications we receive from the DWP.
This means the amount shown on your notice can appear higher than the Universal Credit payment paid to you. The actual amount you receive is the net Universal Credit award after all deductions have been applied by the DWP.
Council Tax Support
I do not think my Council Tax Support award is correct what should I do?
Check that the details on your notification letter match your circumstances and income.
If they do not, email revs@enfield.gov.uk and ask us to review your claim again. But be aware under our local scheme:
- Council Tax Support will be restricted to a maximum Band C Council Tax liability
- A minimum non-dependent deduction will apply to households with other adults living in the property. Existing deductions will increase by 20%.
- The maximum Council Tax Support for working age claimants will reduce to 50%. War pensioners and single claimants under the age of 25 are not subject to this change.
I cannot afford my Council Tax even with support. Can I get extra help?
You may qualify for a Council Tax Hardship Payment.
Where can I find more information about my Council Tax account?
Register for Enfield Connected to:
- pay by Direct Debit
- check your balance
- view payment history
- report changes
- apply for discounts
Eviction and homelessness
I’ve received an eviction notice. What should I do?
Make a Housing application online and upload details of your notice.
Contact us
How can I contact the council by phone?
Call: 020 8379 1000
Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.