Discretionary Housing Payment: Extra Rent Support in England

If you are struggling to afford your rent in England, particularly if your Housing Benefit or Universal Credit does not cover your full rent cost, you may be eligible for extra help through Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP). Designed for renters facing hardship, DHP is managed by local councils and aims to support tenants who face shortfalls in rent, risk of homelessness, or difficulties due to benefit changes.

Understanding Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP) in England

DHP is a top-up payment that a local council can award to renters receiving Housing Benefit or the housing element of Universal Credit. It is not a benefit you are automatically entitled to; it is judged on your individual circumstances, such as a sudden rent increase, benefit cap effects, or financial hardship while waiting for a home move.

Who Can Get DHP?

You might qualify for DHP if:

• You receive Housing Benefit or the housing costs element of Universal Credit.
• Your benefit does not cover your full rent (for example, due to benefit cap, spare room subsidy, or Local Housing Allowance rates).
• You need extra help due to special circumstances like disability adaptations, a risk of eviction, or temporary hardship.

DHP cannot be used for ineligible items like service charges, water bills, or Council Tax.

How Much and How Long?

The amount and duration of a DHP award is entirely at your council's discretion. Payments may be short-term (for example, to help while you search for a more affordable home) or longer, depending on your situation and the council's available funding.

How To Apply for Discretionary Housing Payment

Applications are made to your local council, and each council may have a slightly different process. Most provide an online application form or a downloadable PDF.

Official Application Form: Discretionary Housing Payment Application Form

• Form Name: Discretionary Housing Payment Application Form
• When and How Used: Complete this form as soon as you realise your housing benefit or Universal Credit isn’t covering your rent, or you risk falling behind because of a rent increase, benefit cap, or a sudden change in your financial circumstances. Your council may specify what documents or evidence they need—such as proof of rent, income, or additional costs.
• Where to Find It: Application forms and details are found on your local council’s website. For example, visit the Find your local council tool to access the correct application page.

What Information is Needed?

• National Insurance number
• Tenancy agreement or rent statement
• Details about your income, savings, and spending
• Proof of special circumstances (e.g. medical letters, notice of eviction, proof of loss of income)

After you submit your application, the council will review your case and may ask for further evidence. Decisions are usually made within a few weeks, but timescales can vary.

What Happens If Your DHP Application Is Refused?

If your application is unsuccessful, you can ask the council to reconsider, usually within one month. Although there is no formal appeal process through an external tribunal, requesting a review gives you an opportunity to submit new evidence or explain your hardship further.

Tip: Gather clear evidence and a written statement explaining why you need extra help. The more details you provide, the stronger your case will be.

Relevant Tenancy Laws in England

The rules around DHP are governed by legislation such as the Housing Act 1996 and the Discretionary Financial Assistance Regulations 2001. For broader protections and guidance around renting, see the Housing Act 1988.

If you wish to dispute council benefit decisions that result in rent arrears or potential eviction, tribunal matters are typically handled by the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber).

FAQ: Discretionary Housing Payment in England

1. Who is eligible for Discretionary Housing Payment?
   To be eligible, you must already receive Housing Benefit or the housing costs element of Universal Credit and have a shortfall in your rent you cannot afford.
2. Can I get DHP if I am not on Housing Benefit or Universal Credit?
   No, you must be receiving either Housing Benefit or the housing element of Universal Credit to apply for DHP.
3. How often can I apply for DHP?
   You can apply more than once if your circumstances change, but each application will be assessed on its own merits and funding may be limited.
4. Is DHP paid directly to my landlord?
   This depends on your council’s policy, but payments are often made directly to your landlord to help cover your rent shortfall.
5. What should I do if my DHP application is refused?
   You can request a review by your council, providing additional evidence or information to support your case.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Official government guide on Discretionary Housing Payments
• Find your local council for DHP applications
• First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber)
• Shelter England: Advice on DHP (official charity resource)
• Advice Local: Find local welfare and housing advice

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1. Discretionary Housing Payments (GOV.UK)
2. Discretionary Financial Assistance Regulations 2001
3. Housing Act 1996
4. Housing Act 1988
5. First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber)

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