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Show Universal Credit and Housing Benefit clearly

By the Signpost team5 min read

People searching on benefits look hard for listings that welcome them. If you accept Universal Credit or Housing Benefit, making that clear brings the right enquiries to you. Leaving it vague costs you good tenants.

Say plainly what you accept

State whether you accept Universal Credit, Housing Benefit, or both. People search for these terms directly, so putting them on your listing helps you show up in the right searches, such as Universal Credit accepted and Housing Benefit accepted.

Be clear on how payment works

  • Whether you accept the housing element paid to you or to the tenant
  • Whether you ask for rent in advance or a deposit
  • Whether bills are included or paid on top
  • Any service charges, if it is supported accommodation

Avoid mixed messages

Do not say benefit-supported tenants are welcome and then add conditions that quietly rule them out. Blanket No DSS wording can also be unlawful and puts people off. Our guide on No DSS explains why. Be upfront and consistent instead.

Help the right people self select

Clear benefit information does two jobs. It attracts people you can house, and it lets others move on quickly. That means better enquiries and less back and forth. Our guide on reducing unsuitable enquiries covers the wider picture.

Ready to list? Head to Post a Place and set your benefit information clearly.

Frequently asked questions

Should I put benefit information on my listing?

Yes. People search directly for Universal Credit accepted and Housing Benefit accepted homes, so stating what you accept helps the right people find you.

Is No DSS wording a problem?

Blanket No DSS bans can be unlawful and put people off. It is better to be clear about what you accept and assess applicants individually.

What benefit details matter most?

Whether you accept Universal Credit or Housing Benefit, how the housing element is paid, whether bills are included, and any deposit or rent in advance.

List with clear benefit info

Reach people searching for benefit accepted homes.

Post a Place