Extra help with your Rent

Discretionary Housing Payments

The Discretionary Housing Payment fund has now been allocated for the financial year 2024/2025. If further funds become available between now and 31st March 2025 any outstanding claims will be looked at. We are unable to consider any new claims.
The new fund for Discretionary Housing Payment will commence on 1st April 2025.

Discretionary Housing Payments are for people who need extra help with their rent when their Housing Benefit does not meet the full value of their rent.

Nottingham City Council administers Discretionary Housing Payments (DHP) on behalf of the Department for Works and Pensions.

• People who have an entitlement to Housing Benefit or Universal Credit and who have a shortfall can claim for help.

The award of a DHP as such does not guarantee that a further award will be made at a later date even if the claimant's circumstances have not changed.

This is a discretionary scheme and all applications for a DHP will be considered on an individual basis taking account of household type and circumstances.

What DHP Covers

• Reductions in housing benefit or universal credit where the benefit cap has been applied
• Reductions in housing benefit or universal credit for under occupation (amount of rooms used)
• Reductions in housing benefit or universal credit
• Rent shortfall to prevent a household from becoming homeless
• Rent in advance
• Rent deposits
• Non-dependent deductions
• The effect of income tapers (reduction of support as you earn more)
• Any other lump sum costs associated with a housing need (e.g. removal costs, fleeing domestic violence)

What DHP Doesn't Cover

• Council Tax payments
• Benefit suspensions
• Recovering overpayments
• Job Seekers Allowance or Universal Credit sanctions
• Ineligible service charges
• Increases in rent due to outstanding rent arrears
• Other sanctions and reductions in benefits