Benefits Robin

Discretionary Housing Payment

Benefits RobinBenefits Robin team · Updated February 2026

A Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP) is an extra payment from your local council to help with housing costs when your Housing Benefit or Universal Credit housing element does not cover your full rent. DHPs are not a separate benefit — they are a discretionary fund that councils use to help residents in financial difficulty with housing costs.

DHPs can help with: a shortfall between your Housing Benefit and your rent (for example, due to the benefit cap or spare room deduction), rent deposits and advance payments to help you move to more affordable accommodation, rent arrears in some circumstances, and other housing-related costs.

To apply, you need to be already receiving Housing Benefit or the housing element of Universal Credit. You then apply to your local council — each council has its own application process, usually via an online form. You will need to explain why you need extra help and provide evidence of your financial situation.

DHPs are awarded at the council's discretion — there is no automatic entitlement. The amount and duration vary based on your circumstances and the council's available budget. Some DHPs are one-off payments while others are ongoing for a set period. If your application is refused, you can ask the council to review the decision.

Maximum amount

Varies

Means-tested

Yes

Age group

Any age

Key Requirements

  • 1Already receiving Housing Benefit or UC housing element
  • 2Need extra help with housing costs
  • 3Applied through local council

Related Benefits

H

Housing Benefit

Help with rent for people on low income.

Varies by area

U

Universal Credit

Main means-tested benefit for working-age people on low income.

Varies by circumstance

C

Council Tax Reduction

Reduction on Council Tax for people on low income or receiving certain benefits.

Up to 100% discount

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can apply for a Discretionary Housing Payment?
Anyone already receiving Housing Benefit or the housing element of Universal Credit who needs additional help with housing costs. You apply through your local council. Each council has limited funds and awards DHPs based on individual circumstances.
What can a DHP cover?
DHPs can cover the shortfall between your benefit and your rent, rent deposits and advance payments, certain rent arrears, and other housing-related costs. They cannot cover increases in rent due to non-payment of rent, service charges not covered by Housing Benefit, or Council Tax.
How do I apply?
Contact your local council — most have an online application form on their website. You will need to explain your circumstances and why your current benefit does not cover your housing costs. Provide evidence including bank statements, tenancy agreement, and details of your income and outgoings.
Is a DHP guaranteed?
No. DHPs are discretionary, meaning the council decides whether to make a payment based on your individual circumstances and their available budget. If your application is refused, you can ask the council to review the decision. The council should explain the reasons for their decision.

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Important: Benefits Robin is not affiliated with the DWP or UK Government. We provide information and assistance, not legal or financial advice. These are estimates based on your answers. Final decisions are made by the DWP.