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How-to · Step-by-step

How to apply for extra housing payment or Discretionary Housing Payment

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In short. You must already get Housing Benefit or the Universal Credit housing element. Apply to the council where you live — in England ask for a Housing Payment; in Wales ask for a Discretionary Housing Payment.

This is discretionary. There is no national award amount. England replaced Discretionary Housing Payments with Housing Payments under the Crisis and Resilience Fund on 1 April 2026. This is not a council form.

Last reviewed:

·Estimated time: 45 min·Cost: £0 to apply

What you'll need

  • Housing Benefit award letter or Universal Credit statement showing the housing element
  • Tenancy agreement and current rent
  • Income, savings and a simple budget of outgoings
  • Evidence of arrears, a notice seeking possession, or a quote for a cheaper move if relevant

The steps

  1. 01

    Check you already get rent help

    You usually need Housing Benefit or the Universal Credit housing element in payment. If you do not, claim Universal Credit or Housing Benefit first. Who can still claim Housing Benefit: housing-costs hub.

    Official link →

  2. 02

    Find the right council scheme name

    England: search the council site for Housing Payment or Crisis and Resilience Fund. Wales: Discretionary Housing Payment. Scotland: discretionary housing payment via your local authority. Northern Ireland: Housing Executive Discretionary Housing Payment.

  3. 03

    Apply with a budget, not just the rent figure

    Explain the shortfall (LHA cap, spare room, benefit cap, or a deposit to move). Attach the UC housing-element page or HB letter. Ask whether they can pay the landlord direct.

  4. 04

    Use the award window

    Awards are short-term. Diary the end date and reapply only if the council’s rules allow. If refused, ask for a review in writing. Citizens Advice can help with the letter.

Common pitfalls

  • Applying to DWP instead of the council
  • Using the old England name Discretionary Housing Payment and giving up when the search box finds nothing — try Housing Payment
  • Asking for help with Council Tax — that is a different local reduction, not this scheme

FAQ

Is this a loan?
No. You do not repay a Housing Payment or Discretionary Housing Payment.
Can I get help with a deposit?
Sometimes, if it lets you move to a rent that LHA can cover. The council decides.
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