Housing Benefit

You can sometimes get Housing Benefit, depending on your circumstances. However it rarely covers all of the rent, so you'd have to make up the difference yourself, as well as finding money for bills.

Unfortunately not all private landlords accept housing benefit when you rent privately. Also, if you're under 18 you will probably need a rent guarantor – someone who will agree to cover your rent if you fail to pay.

Other expenses

You may also need to pay some rent in advance, and a damage deposit. If you rent through a letting agency you'll also have to pay an agency fee. Speak to your housing adviser or Connexions Personal Adviser to find out about schemes to help you pay rent in advance. Click Contact us to make an appointment with an adviser.

This information was written by MAP, the independent information, advice and counselling service for 11-25s. Find out more by clicking MAP.