Is this a good idea for away for me and my friend to get off of benefits?

I think getting off of federal help is you can is always the best way. Other people need that assistance too and if you don't need it, why take it away from them. It's only there to get you back on your feet again, after that you should be on your own, and it sounds like you've been on your feet for a while and probably don't need it that much if you were to split rent.