What is the Rate Rebate Scheme?
The Rate Rebate Scheme replaces the rates element of Housing Benefit. The scheme is administered by the Department of Finance and is available for tenants of working age who are entitled to Universal Credit.
Who is eligible?
The Rate Rebate Scheme applies only to working-age tenants.
Eligibility to claim:
- You must be entitled to Universal Credit.
- You or your landlord must be liable for payment of rates to Land & Property Services (LPS).
- You must occupy the property as your home.
Those eligible to claim will not be entitled to Housing Benefit for rates or Low-Income Rate Relief.*
Who is not eligible?
- People who are not entitled to Universal Credit.
- Pensioners remain on Housing Benefit and/or Low Income Rate Relief.
- People living in supported accommodation or temporary accommodation provided in relation to homelessness will remain on Housing Benefit and/or Low-Income Rate Relief.*