Benefits and having someone stay over

This information applies to England and Wales.

Having someone stay over at your house should not affect your benefits. There are no set rules about how often or how long someone can stay.

Some people think there is a limit of 3 nights a week. This is not true.

But if the DWP thinks someone has started living with you, this could affect your benefits.

Which benefits could be affected

Who you live with affects the following benefits:

If the DWP thinks someone is living with you 

If the DWP thinks someone has started living with you, they will look into this. If the person does not have another home, the DWP will usually decide that the person lives with you.

They may also look at:

  • why the person is there, for example if they are your partner
  • how much time the person spends in your house
  • how many nights the person stays over
  • who is named on your bills
  • whether you share finances, for example if you have a joint bank account

The DWP might ask you to show that the person is not living with you

You can do this by showing that they have another home. For example, you could show:

  • their Council Tax or other utility bills
  • their bank statements
  • their tenancy agreement

Warning Your benefits could be suspended

The DWP may suspend your benefits while they look at whether someone is living with you. If this happens, you can ask them to reconsider the suspension. It is a good idea to get advice.

Find a benefits adviser (Turn2us)

If someone moves in with you, you must report this to the DWP immediately. Your benefits could be reduced or stopped if you do not.

Report a change of circumstances (GOV.UK)

Change of circumstances on Universal Credit

Last reviewed by Scope on: 18/07/2024

Was this page helpful?

We're sorry to hear that.

Tell us how we can improve it

More help with benefits