Many renters in Scotland face financial pressures, from rising rent costs to unexpected changes in circumstances. When your Housing Benefit or Universal Credit doesn’t cover your full rent, Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP) can offer essential extra support. Knowing how DHP works, who is eligible, and how to apply can help you stay in your home and avoid housing issues.
What Is Discretionary Housing Payment?
DHP is a government-funded payment provided through your local council to help tenants who need extra assistance with housing costs. It’s designed to top up your Housing Benefit or the housing element of Universal Credit when these do not cover your whole rent.
- Shortfall in rent: DHP can help if your benefits don’t cover your full rent amount.
- Temporary circumstances: For example, if you need help with rent while seeking a new job or dealing with unexpected costs.
- Support for vulnerable situations: Including situations like the removal of the spare room subsidy (‘bedroom tax’), benefit cap, or unexpected life events.
It’s important to know that DHP is a discretionary payment—this means councils decide whether to grant it based on your individual situation.
Who Can Apply for Discretionary Housing Payment?
To be eligible for DHP in Scotland, you must:
- Already receive Housing Benefit or the housing costs part of Universal Credit
- Have a shortfall between your benefit and your actual rent
- Need extra support due to financial hardship or a change in circumstances
DHP cannot be used to cover increases in rent due to service charges, Council Tax, or certain sanctions and reductions.
How to Apply for DHP in Scotland
Applications are handled by your local council. You’ll need to give details about your income, expenses, and why you need extra help.
- Find your local council DHP application page on mygov.scot
- For most areas, you can apply online, by phone, or request a paper application
- Provide supporting information, such as evidence of your rent, benefits, and expenses
Official Form: Discretionary Housing Payment Application
There is no single, national form. Each Scottish council has its own DHP application form, usually called “Discretionary Housing Payment Application.”
- When to use: Whenever your Housing Benefit or Universal Credit doesn’t cover your full rent
- How it’s used: For example, if your Universal Credit drops and you can’t afford the full monthly rent, apply to your council for DHP to cover the shortfall
- Find your local council's DHP application and more guidance
Councils will review your needs and let you know if your application is successful. If refused, you can ask for the decision to be reviewed.
How DHP Is Paid and What to Expect
The payment will usually go directly to your landlord to help pay the shortfall in your rent, but in some cases, it may go to you. DHPs are often awarded for a temporary period—commonly 13 or 26 weeks—so it’s important to check if you’ll need to reapply.
- Check your decision letter for how long support will last and any conditions
- If your financial situation changes, let your council know as this can affect your DHP
What If You’re Not Satisfied With the Decision?
If your council turns down your DHP application, you can ask them to review their decision. There’s no formal appeal to an external tribunal, but councils must consider your review request fairly.
Tip: Gather as much evidence of your hardship as possible, such as bank statements and recent bills, to support your application or review request.
Relevant Legislation and Where to Get Help
The framework for Discretionary Housing Payments is set out in regulations made under the Social Security Contributions and Benefits Act 1992. For private renters, tenancy rights are protected through the Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016.
If you have a dispute with your landlord about your tenancy, you can apply to the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber).
Frequently Asked Questions about DHP in Scotland
- Who can get a Discretionary Housing Payment in Scotland?
To qualify, you must be receiving Housing Benefit or the housing element of Universal Credit and need extra help to cover your rent. - How do I apply for DHP?
Applications are made through your local council, either online, by phone, or by requesting a paper form. Use the guidance on mygov.scot DHP page to find your local authority’s application process. - How long does DHP support last?
DHP is usually awarded for a set period (often 13 or 26 weeks) but can be extended if your need continues. You must reapply if you still need help. - Can I challenge a DHP decision?
If your application is refused, you can ask your council for a decision review, explaining why you think they should reconsider. - Does DHP affect other benefits?
No, DHP is not treated as income for other benefits and won’t affect your entitlement to them.
Key Takeaways
- Discretionary Housing Payment can support renters when benefits do not cover full rent.
- Apply through your local council with detailed evidence about your situation.
- If refused, you can ask for a review, but decisions are at the council’s discretion.
Understanding how DHP works can help you manage rent costs and stay secure in your home.
Need Help? Resources for Renters
- Mygov.scot: Discretionary Housing Payment in Scotland – Official government guidance and council application links
- First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber) – For tenancy disputes
- Citizens Advice Scotland – Free, confidential advice for renters
- Contact your local council’s housing advice team for direct support with rent issues and DHP applications
