Updated October 2026
In short: The "bedroom tax" (removal of the spare room subsidy) reduces Housing Benefit or Universal Credit housing costs for social housing tenants of working age who have a spare bedroom. A mental health condition doesn't automatically exempt you, but you may qualify for an extra bedroom in some circumstances, and Discretionary Housing Payments can help cover the shortfall.
| Situation | Possible help |
|---|---|
| You need an overnight carer | Extra bedroom allowed for a non-resident overnight carer |
| A couple can't share a room due to disability | Extra bedroom may be allowed |
| A child can't share due to disability | Extra bedroom may be allowed |
| Shortfall causing hardship | Discretionary Housing Payment from the council |
| Reached State Pension age | Not affected by the deduction |
Deduction amounts
The deduction is 14% of eligible rent for one spare bedroom and 25% for two or more. It applies to social housing only; private tenants' help is based on Local Housing Allowance instead.
Strengthen a claim or DHP application
- Medical evidence explaining why you need the room
- Letters from your GP, psychiatrist or support worker
- Details of carers who stay overnight
- Your income and outgoings
- Steps you're taking, such as looking for a smaller home
How Fraser Bond helps
- Private rentals sized to your Local Housing Allowance
- Benefit-friendly landlords
- Support with references and moving
Related guides
Fraser Bond services: DSS & benefit-friendly rentals · Rental · Contact us
