Universal Credit(UC) is paid monthly but your housing element only comes straight to Tendring District Council in some cases. UC pays in arrears and will only pay the 4weekly rent amount. Using the earlier calculation for monthly rent, you should be able to work out if the payments we receive cover your full monthly rent and service charge.

If the amount being paid by UC is lower than the rent being charged, it could be because of:

•Receiving other in come, such as wages from your job, which may reduce the amount of UC paid.

•Your wages beingvariable. The amount of UC could change because of increased or reduced wages, either from a salary change or because your hours vary.

•The frequency ofwages. If, for example, you are paid every four weeks instead of monthly, there could be more or less being paid in the monthly assessment period (MAP).

•Under occupancy,sometimes called ‘bedroom tax.’ UC or HB will be reduced if you have spare bedrooms; a reduction of 14% for one room or 25% for two or more rooms.

•The members of your household changing, particularly any non-dependant (adult) occupants. It’s really important that you let UC and Tendring District Council Housing Rents Team know if there are any changes.

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