Discretionary housing payments
What discretionary housing payments are for
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we usually give discretionary housing payments to help people get over short-term difficulties
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your circumstances do not have to be exceptional, but you do have to give a good reason for needing extra support
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we consider applications on a case-by-case basis
Eligibility
You can apply for a discretionary housing payment if:
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you get housing benefit or the housing costs element of Universal Credit
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your housing benefit or housing costs don’t cover all of your rent
Read the Government's latest Discretionary Housing Payment guidance.
Our decision
We will send you a decision notice within one calendar month of the date that we receive your application. This letter will explain the reasons for our decision.
Read our discretionary housing payment policy.
Report a change in circumstances
If we give you a discretionary housing payment, you must tell us immediately if there are any changes in your circumstances. Otherwise we may overpay you and you will have to pay the money back.