Discretionary Housing Payment

A short-term extra payment from your council if your housing benefit or Universal Credit housing costs do not cover your rent.

What you get

A discretionary payment towards rent or, in some cases, other housing costs. The amount and length of an award are decided by your local council and are not guaranteed. There is no national fixed figure.

Who can get it

You must usually already get Housing Benefit or the housing element of Universal Credit, and need further help with housing costs. A disability-related shortfall, for example after the benefit cap or because you need an extra room, is a common reason to ask, but the council decides.

Related entitlements

• Benefit cap exemption because of a disability or caring award
• Council Tax Reduction (Council Tax Support)

Official sources we checked

• https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/claiming-discretionary-housing-payments/claiming-discretionary-housing-payments

Last checked 10 November 2026. This page is information, not an eligibility decision or legal advice. Always confirm the current rules on the official source before you apply.