Universal Credit - Housing Costs, 7 & 8 July 2022 ONLINE

Universal credit (UC) claimants often have difficulties getting their Housing Costs element included in their claim and having the right amount paid on time.

This one-day course, delivered over two consecutive mornings, focuses on the practical aspects of help towards rent in UC. 

It will include an overview of the claim and verification process, who is eligible for housing costs in their UC award, common problems preventing correct payment of Housing Costs element and how to check payment amounts and dates.

The course also covers how and when to apply for Alternative Payment Arrangements and direct deductions for rent arrears, and relevant regulations for challenging administrative errors.

The course covers:

• Who can still claim housing benefit
• Claiming Housing Costs element correctly

• Rent verification process
• The eligibility rules for housing costs
• Checking entitlement amount
• Local housing allowance rules and the bedroom tax
• Possible reasons for rent shortfall 

Methods of delivery and timings

This full-day Standard level course runs from 10am to 1pm, across two consecutive mornings, with a 30 minute break on each day at 11.15am. It is delivered live online, via Zoom, with CPAG trainer Jo Silcox.

It is a practical course delivered using a combination of trainer presentation, exercises and group discussion. Participants will be provided with supporting e-learning material, including PowerPoint slides and access to exercises and activities hosted on CPAG’s e-learning platform.

What you will need

Participants will need a Wi-Fi connection and a suitable device to access the internet. Prior to the event, participants will receive an email with a link which they should use to join the event and access supporting materials.