You can usually rent privately while claiming Universal Credit, but the housing costs element may not cover your full rent. The amount depends on factors including your age, household size, location and the Local Housing Allowance rate for your area, so check the figures on GOV.UK before signing a tenancy. You normally pay the landlord yourself, although you can ask for payments to be made directly to them in some circumstances. Your local council may also have schemes to help with a deposit or rent shortfall.