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Homeless or sofa-surfing? You can still claim Universal Credit without a fixed address

Not having a permanent address does not stop you claiming Universal Credit. Government guidance says you can use a care-of address, such as a trusted friend or family member's, your hostel address or, in exceptional cases, your local jobcentre. Free help to claim is available, and there are ways round having no ID, bank account or phone.

Reviewed 08/11/2026 · Applies to: England, Scotland and Wales (Northern Ireland has different arrangements)

Who this helps

People who are homeless, sofa-surfing or in hostels or temporary accommodation in England, Scotland or Wales, and the friends, family and workers supporting them.

What to do

  1. Choose an address for your claim: a care-of address such as a family member's or trusted friend's, your hostel address, or in exceptional cases your local jobcentre.
  2. Get free help to make the claim. Help to Claim is provided by Citizens Advice in England and Wales and Citizens Advice Scotland, online or by phone.
  3. If you have no bank details, email address or phone, call the Universal Credit helpline on 0800 328 5644 (Welsh language 0800 328 1744), Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm, or go to a jobcentre. Calls are free.
  4. If you have no ID, call the helpline. The guidance says there are processes to let you make a claim, and identity can be confirmed at a jobcentre or at home.
  5. If you are in financial need while you wait for your first payment, ask for an advance. It must be paid back, usually within 24 months.
  6. If you live in a hostel, supported housing or temporary accommodation, claim Housing Benefit from your local council for your rent, because Universal Credit will not include the housing element.
  7. Contact your local council about homelessness help. In England, jobcentres must offer to refer you to the council, with your consent.
  8. If you cannot open or use a bank account, ask about payment into another person's account or the Payment Exception Service.

Before you act

  • This covers England, Scotland and Wales. Universal Credit in Northern Ireland has different arrangements, including how often it is paid.
  • Advances are loans taken from future payments, so only borrow what you need.
  • This is general information, not legal or financial advice. Citizens Advice or Shelter can give independent advice on your situation.

Take the next step

Continue to the provider’s website to check the latest details and use the service.

GOV.UK guide: Universal Credit and homeless people ↗

Destination: www.gov.uk

Sources

MyAgumba explains the sources above. Eligibility and availability depend on your circumstances and the provider’s current rules.