<p>Households eligible for means-tested benefits can claim housing support towards their housing costs.</p><p> </p><p>Claimants in receipt of housing support living in social rented sector have their eligible rent paid in full, unless the level of housing support is reduced because of their income or savings, contributions from non-dependants, or limited by the benefit cap or the removal of the spare room subsidy (RSRS).</p><p> </p><p>For private renters, the Local Housing Allowance (LHA) determines the maximum housing support for tenants. LHA rates are not intended to cover all rents in all areas.</p><p> </p><p>In 2020 we raised LHA rates to the 30th percentile. This was a significant investment of almost £1 billion. We have maintained the increase since then so that everyone who benefited from the increase continues to do so.</p><p> </p><p>For those who require additional support, Discretionary Housing Payments (DHPs) can be paid to those entitled to Housing Benefit or the housing element of Universal Credit who face a shortfall in meeting their housing costs. Since 2011 the Government has provided nearly £1.6 billion to local authorities for households who need additional support with their housing costs.</p><p> </p><p>We recognise that rents are increasing. However, the challenging fiscal environment means that difficult decisions have been necessary to ensure support is targeted effectively. Overall, the government is providing total support of over £94bn over 2022/23 and 2023/24 to help households and individuals with the rising cost of living.</p>