Paying your Council rent

Setting up a Direct Debit

Most people pay their Council bills by direct debit and you can pay your rent this way. Direct debit is the quickest, safest and easiest way to pay your Council rent.

It’s easier for you as you don’t have to

  • go to your bank to change Standing Orders
  • write cheques
  • fill in paperwork
  • pay for postage
  • queue to pay in local shops.

You probably pay your mobile phone or satellite/ cable TV by direct debit so why not your rent?

You can arrange to pay your rent weekly, fortnightly or monthly on a date that suits you. We arrange payments with your bank or building society. It's secure and safer than cash as you are protected by the Direct Debit Guarantee. Paying by direct debit is easier, which means you don't miss a payment and we collect rent which we spend on your home and housing services. 

Speak to your housing officer to set up your Direct Debit today.

Other ways to pay your rent

Pay your Council rent online

Pay using our automated telephone line available 24/7 on 0800 7831719. You will need your debit card and rent payment card details

Use your rent payment card at PayPoints in local shops. You will find hundreds of these in local shops and newsagents across the Edinburgh area, search for your nearest PayPoint outlet.

If you lose your rent payment card, email rent first for a replacement.

Worried about paying your rent?

We know that many people struggle with rising costs and if you’re having difficulties paying your rent you should speak to us now. We can help by

  • referring you for money and debt advice
  • helping you to apply for benefits and funding to help pay rent
  • setting up a repayment plan.

A Tenant Hardship Fund has been set up to help tenants, including those who cannot access benefits. If you’re struggling to pay your rent, speak to your housing officer or contact tenanthardshipfund@edinburgh.gov.uk to see if we can help.

You’ll also be offered advice and support to maximise your income, check benefit and funding entitlement and review your household outgoings

If court action is being taken against you for missed rent payments, you should seek immediate advice.

Download rent payment dates - PDF

Other help pages

Elderly woman with her hands out with coins in it

Cost of living help

Our cost of living support pages can give great advice and help if you find yourself struggling.

Cost of living help