Your Housing Benefit checklist should usually include proof of identity and National Insurance number, your tenancy agreement or rent details, and evidence of income, savings and benefits. You may also need details and documents for everyone living with you, such as their dates of birth and income. New claims are generally limited to people who have reached State Pension age or live in specified supported or temporary accommodation; many others need to claim Universal Credit instead. Check your local council’s requirements and the relevant GOV.UK guidance before applying.