Christmas is an expensive time of year, but there’s a good reason to put paying the rent at the top of your Christmas to-do list.
We know that there can be a great deal of pressure to spend a lot on presents and entertaining over Christmas and New Year; however, your rent must still be paid before, during and after the festive period.
Missing payments during December and January means that you will start the New Year in arrears, which ultimately puts you at risk of losing your home. It's important that you stick to a budget and pay your priority bills, which include rent, Council Tax and utilities.
We want to make sure that you are able to enjoy Christmas without having to worry about money problems, so here are some sensible steps you can take to help you stay out of debt:
- Decide how much you can afford to spend at Christmas in advance and stick to it – you will still then be able to make payments on essential bills such as rent.
- Could paying an additional week’s rent in advance be a struggle? Continue paying your rent as normal, but consider adding a little extra each time you make a payment. That way, you’ll be up to date, or even a little ahead when the New Year rolls around.
- Make sure that you inform the relevant authorities (e.g. DWP) of any change in circumstances that may affect your benefit entitlement. This means you avoid any overpayments which you will need to repay.
- It’s important to stay in touch with us if you feel you might be under some financial pressure towards the end of the year. Are you already worried about being able to pay your rent? Please get in touch with your Income Officer.
Your rent payments are due weekly and in advance. The easiest way to pay is via direct debit - click here to find out how to set this up.
Enjoy your Christmas and New Year celebrations. Don’t stop buying presents or hosting your family at Christmas, just budget ahead and remember that the best present for you and your family is to pay your rent and keep your home.