Discretionary Housing Payments (DHPs) can provide extra money when your local Council decides you need extra help to pay your housing costs.
On application your council will consider your circumstances to see whether you are eligible for a DHP. They will decide whether to give you a DHP, how much you will be paid and for how long you can receive a payment.
Who can claim a DHP?
If you need more help with housing costs and currently claiming:
You cannot receive a DHP for help with Council Tax.
You could need a DHP if you are affected by the Benefit Cap or Bedroom Tax (you have a spare room/s, so under- occupying and live in social housing – council/housing association).
Your council will decide the length of any DHP award, as it is down to their discretion; some people may qualify for longer term support.
DHP’s can be used because of a shortfall in rent – you may have had the amount given to you to cover you housing costs reduced because you have more bedroom/s than you need. A DHP can be used for rent deposits or rent in advance and in some cases to clear rent arrears.
How to claim?
This will depend on your council – applications can be completed by filling out a paper form – most councils have a printable form on their websites. You can contact your council and ask them to post out a DHP application form.