A Direct Payment (APA) is when Universal Credit pays your rent directly to your landlord instead of giving you the money to pay it yourself. This can help you avoid falling behind on rent and reduce stress over monthly budgeting. Alternative Payment Arrangements (APAs) are available for claimants who would struggle to manage standard Universal Credit payment arrangements.
Universal Credit is usually paid once a month, so you can manage your own budget. But for some people, it’s easier and safer if their rent is sent straight to your landlord. This is called a Direct Payment – part of something known as an Alternative Payment Arrangement (APA).
It’s really easy to ask for an APA. Simply…
- Log in to your Universal Credit online account
- Go to your Journal
- Write a message saying: “I would like my rent paid directly to my landlord”
- Send the message.
Your work coach or case manager will then look at your request and let you know if it can be put in place.
Direct payments can help you:
- Make sure your rent is always paid on time
- Reduce the risk of eviction if you’ve had problems paying rent before
- Take one big bill off your monthly budget worries
- Give peace of mind to both you and your landlord
You may be able to get a Direct Payment if:
- You’re behind on rent (in arrears) or have struggled to pay before
- You have mental health challenges, addiction issues, or learning difficulties
- You’ve been homeless before
- You find it hard to manage a monthly budget
- Your landlord or support worker thinks it’s the best option for you.
If you think a Direct Payment could help you, ask for it through your Universal Credit account. It’s quick, simple, and could help you stay on top of your rent.
If you would like to find out more about Alternative Payment Arrangements (APAs), please visit www.gov.uk →
