You may be able to get a DHP if you're already getting Housing Benefit or Universal Credit
Do I qualify for a DHP?
You can only qualify for an award if;
- you are entitled to housing benefit or can provide evidence that you are entitled to the housing element of Universal Credit; and
- pay rent and require further assistance with housing costs
DHP is a temporary solution while you find a way to cover your rental shortfall by, for example, finding work or moving to affordable accommodation. Please note that if you have made a claim for rent in advance and/or deposit and already moved into the property, you will not receive an award in this circumstance.
How to apply
- complete the application form, you may need;
- your benefit claim reference number, if known
- details of household income and expenditure
- details of how much rent you are charged and landlord details including bank details
- to upload evidence to support your application eg copies of pay slips, tenancy agreement showing rent amount
Submitting your evidence
Just before you submit the online form, you will be provided with a list of any evidence required to process your application. If you cannot upload the documents to the form immediately, you can use the button below to submit your evidence at a later date.
What happens next?
Once we receive your application, and all the required supporting information, you will be notified within 17 days of a decision. If we require any further information you will be contacted. We'll normally start paying the DHP from the Monday after you submit your claim.
For more information on DHPs, download the following document Discretionary Housing Payment Policy 2025 (PDF, 209KB)