UK-wide
Support for Mortgage Interest (SMI)
Last verified: 2 October 2026. We check the official source every night. How we verify.
A loan to help with interest on your mortgage if you get certain income-related benefits. It is not a grant and usually has to be repaid.
How much you could get
The amount depends on your circumstances. We do not publish a figure unless it is tied to a tax year and an official source.
Check the current amount on the official page.
Who can claim
You usually need to own your home with a mortgage and get a qualifying benefit such as Universal Credit, Pension Credit or income-related ESA, after a waiting period.
Eligibility conditions
These are the structured conditions Benefit Badger uses in the eligibility check. They are a guide, not a decision.
- You live in the UK.
- You have a mortgage.
Check if Support for Mortgage Interest may apply to you
It usually takes about 5 minutes. You do not need to create an account. This is guidance, not a government decision.
When it may not apply
If you rent, SMI does not apply. It only helps with interest, not capital repayments, and it is a loan.
Where you live
Support for Mortgage Interest is available UK-wide, but the claim route can still differ across nations.
Browse benefits in England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, or the A–Z list.
How to claim
- Confirm you get a qualifying income-related benefit. Support for Mortgage Interest is a loan, not a grant, and it only runs if you already get a qualifying benefit such as Universal Credit or Pension Credit after any waiting period. Official page
- Ask DWP using the route on GOV.UK. You do not apply to your mortgage lender for SMI. The official page explains how it is set up and that it is usually repaid when the property is sold. Official page
- Understand it only covers interest, up to a cap. Capital repayments, arrears of other bills and second charges may not be included. GOV.UK states the current limits.
- Get independent money advice before you accept a loan. SMI is optional. A debt adviser can help you compare it with other options. Benefit Badger does not arrange loans.
Official sources
- Support for Mortgage Interest (SMI) — GOV.UK (primary source)
Related benefits
See all housing and bills benefits.
Source: Department for Work and Pensions. This page is guidance from an independent service, not a government decision. Only the relevant government department can confirm eligibility and make a payment.
Check if this may apply to you
It usually takes about 5 minutes. You do not need to create an account. This is guidance, not a government decision.