How to get help with rent using Discretionary Housing Payments

By Editorial team · Updated 18 September 2026 · Applies to England

In short

If your regular financial support does not cover your full rent, you can apply for a discretionary housing payment through your local council. These funds provide extra short-term help for housing costs, though approval is not guaranteed and depends entirely on your local council's rules.

What is a Discretionary Housing Payment

Struggling to pay your rent can cause a great deal of worry. If your regular financial support does not cover all your housing costs, you might be able to get extra money. This extra help is known as a discretionary housing payment. This support is designed to bridge the gap when you are facing tough financial difficulties with your rent. This applies to England. You can check GOV.UK or speak to your local council to find out more about local support funds and extra financial help. Local authorities manage these specific funds to help residents who are struggling to keep up with their housing costs.

Who can claim a DHP from the council

You might look into this scheme if you already receive certain benefits to help with housing costs, but still find yourself falling short. Local councils run these funds to support people who need extra help paying rent, service charges, or moving costs. You do not automatically receive this money, and your local council will look closely at your personal financial situation before deciding. They will assess your income, your outgoings, and any other challenges you are facing. Check with your local council to see how their specific scheme works and whether your household might qualify for support. You can also explore help with housing for more guidance.

What costs DHP can cover

These funds are designed to help with various housing expenses when times are hard. They can sometimes cover shortfalls in your regular rent payments, help you pay a rent deposit when moving to a new property, or assist with other essential moving costs. They aim to give you breathing room when your regular financial support is not enough to cover your bills. Your local council decides how the money is distributed, so the exact types of costs covered can vary depending on where you live. You can check the current details on GOV.UK or contact your council team directly to learn what expenses they can assist with.

How to apply to your local council

Applying for extra support usually involves contacting your local council directly. Because councils manage these funds independently, the way you apply can vary depending on your area. You should visit your council website or contact their housing team to find the correct application forms and guidance. Make sure you provide all the details they ask for so they can review your financial situation properly. You can also look at help with the cost of living for broader financial advice while you wait for a decision.

Visit your local council website to find their specific application forms.
Gather clear records of your rent payments, household income, and expenses.
Complete the form carefully and submit it along with any requested evidence.

What to do if your application is refused

Sometimes, an application for extra financial help might not be successful. If your local council decides not to give you a payment, you can usually ask them to look at their decision again. This is often called asking for a review or an appeal. You should check the letter or message from your local council to see their specific rules and time limits on challenging a choice. You can also explore help if you are out of work or other support pages on GOV.UK to find alternative options that might help you manage your living costs.

Common questions

Do I need to be on benefits to apply?

You often need to be receiving some help with housing costs, but rules vary by area. Check with your local council to see their specific requirements.

Will getting this money affect my other benefits?

Extra council support funds generally do not affect your regular benefit payments, but you should check local guidelines to be certain.

How is the money paid?

If your application is successful, your local council will usually pay the money directly to you or straight to your landlord to help with rent.

Can I apply more than once?

Some councils limit applications to a certain number per year, while others allow multiple requests if your circumstances change. Check your local council rules.

Who wrote this: Our editorial team, with AI assistance, from the official pages listed on this page. It was checked automatically for unsupported figures and copied text, but it has not yet been read by a person. If something looks wrong, please tell us.
Not advice: This is general information for England. What you can get depends on your circumstances — check with the organisation that runs the scheme before you act.