What is deposit and rent-advance help?
Deposit and rent-advance schemes help people who are homeless or at immediate risk to secure a new private tenancy in England. Local councils and some charitable funds can provide a deposit, a deposit guarantee (bond), or an upfront rent payment to remove barriers to moving. These schemes vary by area and are part of the council's homelessness prevention or relief options; contact your local council via their official guidance to start an application Find your local council[1].
Official forms and applications
Common official forms and applications you may need:
- Local homelessness application form (council-specific, no national form): used to ask the council to accept a homelessness duty — for example, complete the form your council provides when you present as homeless and explain why you cannot stay where you are.
- Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP) application (no national number): a council grant to top up Housing Benefit or Universal Credit housing costs; apply to your council when Housing Benefit/LHA does not cover your rent and you need short-term help Discretionary Housing Payments[2].
- Application to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) — residential property: used if you need a formal decision about tenancy disputes, deposits or unlawful deductions; see the tribunal's guidance for the correct application process First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber)[3].
What councils will check when deciding
When you apply the council will usually assess your priority need, vulnerability, local connection and your reason for homelessness. Prepare documents and evidence to show your situation and finances.
- Proof of identity and residency: passport, birth certificate, or recent letters showing your current address.
- Proof of income and benefits: payslips, bank statements, or Universal Credit award letters.
- Evidence of homelessness or eviction risk: eviction notices, landlord letters, or correspondence showing rent arrears.
How decisions are made and legal context
Councils assess cases under homelessness duties and relevant housing law in England and Wales, including the Housing Act 1988 [4] and the Rent Act 1977 [5]. If you disagree with a decision you can ask for a review and, in some cases, apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) for a determination.
FAQ
- Who can get deposit or rent-advance help?
- People who are homeless or at serious risk of homelessness and who meet local eligibility rules can be considered; eligibility varies by council and your individual circumstances.
- How long will support take to arrange?
- Timescales vary: some councils can authorise short-term payments or bonds within days, while full assessments for a homelessness duty may take longer depending on checks and available evidence.
- What if a landlord refuses to accept a deposit bond?
- You should explain the council scheme and provide the council contact; if the landlord still refuses you can ask the council for help to mediate and, where there is an unlawful deduction of deposit, you can bring a claim to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber).
How-To
- Contact your local council housing duty or homelessness team to report homelessness and request advice and an application.
- Complete the council's homelessness application or DHP application as instructed and submit any required forms.
- Gather evidence: identity documents, proof of income or benefits, eviction notices, and photos or correspondence that support your situation.
- Ask the council about deposit bonds or rent-advance payments and explain how this will enable you to move into an available tenancy.
- If you disagree with a council decision, request an internal review and consider applying to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) for a formal determination.
