Discretionary Housing Payment: A Renter's Guide for Wales

If you are renting in Wales and are struggling to afford full rent or housing costs even after receiving Housing Benefit or the housing element of Universal Credit, you might qualify for Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP). This extra help is designed to give short-term financial support to renters facing hardship, such as sudden rent increases, benefit shortfalls, or unexpected changes in circumstances. Understanding how DHP works in Wales can help you stay safely housed and avoid rent arrears or eviction.

What is Discretionary Housing Payment?

Discretionary Housing Payment is a government scheme managed by local councils in Wales. It offers temporary financial assistance to renters who receive Housing Benefit or Universal Credit with a housing element but still face difficulty covering their rent or other housing costs. DHP can help with:

• Making up the shortfall between your benefits and your rent
• Rent arrears (to prevent eviction)
• Cost of moving to a more affordable home
• Removal costs or rent deposits

This payment cannot cover some costs, like service charges not considered eligible, or increases due to non-dependents living with you.

Who Can Apply?

You must be receiving either Housing Benefit or the housing element of Universal Credit. DHP is discretionary, which means councils look at applications on a case-by-case basis. Typical reasons people apply include:

• Benefit cap or bedroom tax affecting your payments
• Delays or changes in Universal Credit
• Significant change in personal circumstances

How to Apply for Discretionary Housing Payment in Wales

To apply, you need to contact your local Welsh council and fill in a DHP application form. Councils may provide this form online or as a paper version. Each council may have its own process, but you’ll generally need to:

• Fill out the Discretionary Housing Payment application form (often simply called ‘DHP Application’; there’s no national form number, but your local council will provide it)
• Provide evidence of your financial situation (such as bank statements, proof of rent, evidence of benefits, and details of your circumstances)
• Explain why you need extra help and how long you might need it

Find your local council’s DHP information and application form on the official Welsh local council lookup.

What Happens After You Apply?

Your council will assess your application, considering your income, rent, and personal circumstances. If successful, payments are usually made direct to your landlord, though sometimes they’re paid to you. The amount and duration of DHP is decided by your council. There is no set entitlement and awards are always temporary, so you may need to reapply if your difficulties continue.

If your application is refused or you receive less than you need, you can ask the council to review its decision. This should be done in writing, explaining why you believe more help is needed.

Relevant Legislation in Wales

The rules for Discretionary Housing Payments in Wales come from national guidance and local discretion, underpinned by UK-wide regulations set out in the Discretionary Financial Assistance Regulations 2001 and local housing procedures. General rental rights for tenants in Wales are set out in the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016.¹

What If I Face Eviction or Dispute?

If you risk eviction due to rent arrears, inform your council as soon as possible and let your landlord know that you are seeking DHP. For formal disputes about your tenancy, the Residential Property Tribunal Wales handles housing disputes and appeals in the nation.

Official Forms and Where to Find Them

• Discretionary Housing Payment Application Form (no national number): Used when applying to your local Welsh council for extra financial help toward housing costs.
  Example: If you cannot pay your full rent after Universal Credit changes, fill out your council’s DHP application—find your council and check their DHP page.
• Universal Credit: Manage Your Claim – for updating details or evidence if you receive UC; see the official Universal Credit online account.

FAQs: Discretionary Housing Payment in Wales

1. Who is eligible for Discretionary Housing Payment in Wales?
   To be considered, you must be receiving either Housing Benefit or Universal Credit with a housing element, and show you need further help meeting your housing costs.
2. How do I apply for DHP in Wales?
   Contact your local council, complete their Discretionary Housing Payment application form, and provide evidence about your finances and circumstances. Forms are found on your council’s website through this council directory.
3. Can DHP help with rent arrears?
   Yes, it can help with rent arrears to prevent eviction, as long as you qualify and the council agrees your circumstances are exceptional.
4. What can I do if my DHP application is refused?
   You can ask your council in writing for a review or reconsideration. Clearly explain why you believe your situation deserves support.
5. How long does DHP last?
   Award periods vary. DHP is always temporary—often weeks or months—and you may need to reapply if you still need help.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• Discretionary Housing Payment is a short-term, local council-run safety net for renters facing financial hardship in Wales.
• You must be on Housing Benefit or Universal Credit (housing element) to apply.
• Apply through your council and be ready to provide supporting documents.

Act quickly if you’re struggling—DHP can make all the difference in preventing rent arrears or eviction.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Welsh Government: Benefits, housing, and support – for updates and advice
• Find your local council in Wales – to access DHP applications
• Residential Property Tribunal Wales – handles housing disputes, eviction appeals, and some rent and deposit matters
• Renting Homes Wales – official guidance on your renting rights and new tenancy laws
• Universal Credit guidance – for managing benefit claims

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1. Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016
2. Discretionary Financial Assistance Regulations 2001

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