Common situation
When you own your home
Owning your home does not stop you claiming Universal Credit — but the housing support is limited. Help with mortgage interest is a repayable loan, not a payment. Speaking to your lender early often matters more than any benefit.
Key concerns
- Support for Mortgage Interest is a loan, not a benefit
- Lender forbearance options (payment holidays, term extensions)
- Council tax and other support that still applies
- Selling vs. holding — when to seek advice
If your situation matches this, an indicative benefit check usually takes about five minutes.
Real-world examples
Illustrative situations to help you recognise patterns close to yours.
Related guides
Housing
Mortgage support after losing your job: your options
Worried about your mortgage after redundancy? You may have options — lender forbearance, Support for Mortgage Interest, and the Mortgage Charter. A calm, practical guide.
Housing
Help with mortgage payments after redundancy
Support for Mortgage Interest, lender forbearance and other UK options if you're struggling with your mortgage after losing your job.
Universal Credit
Can I claim Universal Credit if I own my home?
Yes — owning your home doesn't stop you claiming Universal Credit. The home you live in is ignored as capital. You may also qualify for Support for Mortgage Interest after a waiting period.
From the redundancy hub
Mortgage help after redundancy: what's available in the UK
If you've lost your job and have a mortgage, here's what to do first, how Support for Mortgage Interest works, and where to get free debt advice.
Practical next steps
Calm, ordered actions you can take now. Pick the one that fits where you are today.
- Call your mortgage lender today
Ask about a payment holiday or short-term reduction.
Official resources
Citizens Advice and StepChange offer free debt and mortgage advice — call before missing payments, not after.