Discretionary Housing Payment: Extra Help for Rent in Northern Ireland

If you're a renter in Northern Ireland and your Housing Benefit or Universal Credit doesn't cover all your rent, you might be worried about keeping up with payments. One support option is the Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP), a flexible financial help scheme offered by the government. This article explains what DHP is, how it works, who can apply, and what to expect during the process.

Understanding Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP)

DHP is short-term financial assistance provided by the Housing Executive to people who need extra help with housing costs on top of their usual Housing Benefit or the housing costs part of Universal Credit.

• DHP is not a benefit you’re automatically entitled to; it is awarded at the Housing Executive's discretion.
• DHP can help with shortfalls between your rent and benefit, rent arrears (in limited situations), or removal costs due to certain benefit changes.
• It cannot cover increases in rent due to outstanding service charges or sanctions applied to your benefits.

Support is usually temporary, aimed at giving you time to find a more affordable solution.

Who Can Apply for Discretionary Housing Payment?

You may be eligible for DHP if:

• You receive Housing Benefit or the housing costs element of Universal Credit
• You need financial help with rent that your benefit doesn’t cover

Common reasons for applying include:

• Your housing benefit has been reduced due to the under-occupancy (bedroom tax) rules
• You are affected by the benefit cap
• You need extra help during a short-term crisis or emergency relating to your housing

How to Apply for DHP in Northern Ireland

The Northern Ireland Housing Executive manages DHP claims. You will need to:

• Fill out the Discretionary Housing Payment application form (Form: DHP1)
• Provide supporting evidence, such as proof of income, rent, and housing costs
• Explain why you need extra support

The Housing Executive will consider your circumstances and may ask for more information.

About Form DHP1 – Discretionary Housing Payment Application Form

• Form name: Discretionary Housing Payment Application Form (DHP1)
• When to use: Use this form if you need additional help with rent that your Housing Benefit or Universal Credit does not fully cover. For example, after a rent increase or changes in your financial situation.
• How to use: Complete the DHP1 form and submit it to your local Housing Executive office. You may download and print the form or complete it online via the official NI Housing Executive website.

Action Tip: Provide as much detail as possible about your financial situation and any special circumstances—this will help the Housing Executive make a fair decision.

How DHP Decisions Are Made and What Happens Next

After you apply, the Housing Executive will review your application and consider factors such as:

• Your total income and expenses
• The reason for the shortfall in your rent payments
• Personal circumstances (e.g., disability, risk of homelessness)

You will usually receive a written decision. If your claim is successful, you’ll receive extra payments (either once or regularly for a set period) to help with rent. If refused, you have the right to request a review.

Tribunal and Tenancy Law for Northern Ireland Renters

If you believe a DHP decision is unfair, you can request an internal review by the Housing Executive. Northern Ireland's residential tenancy disputes—such as rent arrears, eviction, and repairs—are handled by the Northern Ireland Courts and Tribunals Service.

The main legislation governing tenancies is the Private Tenancies (Northern Ireland) Order 2006.¹

FAQ: Discretionary Housing Payment in Northern Ireland

1. Can I get a Discretionary Housing Payment if I already receive the maximum Housing Benefit?
   Yes, if your Housing Benefit or Universal Credit doesn’t cover all your rent, you may still qualify for DHP to cover the shortfall.
2. Can DHP help with rent arrears?
   In limited circumstances, DHP can be used to help pay off rent arrears, but the main focus is on ongoing shortfalls rather than large arrears.
3. Is Discretionary Housing Payment a loan?
   No, DHP is not a loan—you do not have to pay it back. It is a grant made at the Housing Executive’s discretion.
4. How long does DHP last?
   Awards are usually temporary and reviewed regularly. The duration depends on your circumstances and the nature of the financial difficulty.
5. Where can I get help applying for DHP?
   You can find help at the Housing Executive, Citizens Advice, or local council services. The official DHP application and guidance is available on the NI Housing Executive website.

Key Takeaways: Discretionary Housing Payment in NI

• DHP provides extra financial help with rent for renters on Housing Benefit or Universal Credit
• It is not automatic—each application is considered on a case-by-case basis
• Applying early and providing good evidence increases your chances of success

If your rent is unaffordable, support is available through DHP and other local advice services.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Northern Ireland Housing Executive: DHP Guidance and Application
• NI Housing Executive: Housing Benefit and Rates Information
• Citizens Advice Northern Ireland: Free Support for Renters
• Northern Ireland Courts and Tribunals Service: Landlord & Tenant Information

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1. Private Tenancies (Northern Ireland) Order 2006

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