The majority of tenants will have their housing benefit (or housing costs under universal credit) paid directly to them.
Under housing benefit and universal credit rules, exceptions can be made so that payments can be made directly to the landlord. It is possible to arrange for your landlord to be paid directly if you are struggling to budget or if you are in rent arrears.
Landlords can also apply directly for the rent to be paid directly to them if you fall into arrears of at least 2 month’s rent.