end of rent free weeks

Tenants told us that rent non-collection weeks, sometimes called ‘rent-free’ weeks, were confusing and made it difficult to understand their rent accounts.

In April 2023 believe housing removed rent free weeks.

You still pay the same amount yearly as before but less per month because payments are now calculated across 52 weeks.

In addition to making budgeting easier, it also provides a simpler experience for setting up Direct Debits and Universal Credit payments.

If you’re on Universal Credit and reported your rent increase to the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) in April 2023, please ensure you notified them about the end of rent-free weeks.

Don’t worry alone … We can help you to make things better

believe housing can help you tackle any problems with money, benefits, employment or bills.

We have a range of experts who can provide you with tailored support with:

• Paying your rent and making arrangements to deal with any arrears
• Full financial health checks to make sure you get the most from your money
• Money guidance and providing information on reducing outgoings
• Welfare benefits and Universal Credit claims to make sure you get what you’re entitled to
• Referrals to help with energy costs
• Access to low-cost furniture options
• Help with ID and signposting to set up a bank account
• Support with CV writing, upskilling, and finding job opportunities
• Access to free training and support to improve your job prospects.

Contact believe housing

If you have any queries or require additional support, contact believe housing on 0300 1311 999, hello@believehousing.co.uk or using our customer portal at www.believehousing.co.uk

Further money-related resources

• Stop Loan Sharks: call 0300 555 2222, email reportaloanshark@stoploansharks.gov.uk, or visit stoploansharks.co.uk
• NEFirst Credit Union: call 0330 055 3666, email info@nefirstcu.co.uk, or visit nefirstcu.co.uk
• Citizens Advice: visit citizensadvice.org.uk to find the one nearest to you.
• MoneySavingExpert: visit moneysavingexpert.com/family for advice on income, budgeting and more.