Discretionary Housing Payments

Discretionary Housing payments are not payments of Housing Benefit. They are stand alone payments. They will therefore be made in addition to Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit.

Subject to certain conditions, we can make additional payments to any claimant who is not currently receiving full Housing Benefit / Council Tax Benefit, and is in our view, in need of additional help with housing costs.

In order to apply for Discretionary Housing Payments you must:

• Be in receipt of Housing Benefit, Council Tax Benefit or both
• Require further assistance in order to meet your housing costs

Who can Claim?

In most cases this will be the person who is receiving Housing or Council Tax Benefit, but we can also accept a claim from someone acting on a claimant's behalf if we think that it is reasonable to do so.

How Much Can I Get?

This depends on your personal circumstances. You cannot get more that your rent or Council Tax liability.

How Do I Claim?

To claim Discretionary Housing Payments you will need to complete an application form  (45.97 KB) and provide the documentation to support your claim. Please make sure that you complete the form and enclose/bring all evidence requested (originals only) or it may delay your claim.

What Happens Next?

We will look at your circumstances, taking into account things like your family’s needs, how much you are paying out each week and any savings, investments or other money you have access to. When we have made a decision we will write and tell you whether or not you qualify, and, if you do, how much you will get. We may need to ask you for more information before we can make a decision but we will try and tell you our decision within one month.

What Happens If I Disagree With Your Decision?

Your can contact us in writing within one month of the date of your notification letter giving your reasons why you feel that our decision is wrong. We will try to respond to this request within one month.

If I Receive Discretionary Housing Payment How Will It Be Paid?

Any Discretionary Housing Payment towards your rent will be included in your four weekly Housing Benefit payment and any towards your Council Tax will be credited to your Council Tax account.

What Happens If I Am Overpaid Discretionary Housing Payments?

You will have to pay any overpaid money back to us-see overpayment of benefit

Can A Discretionary Housing Payment Be Backdated?

Yes, but only if you are receiving Housing or Council Tax Benefit from the date that you want your Discretionary Housing Payment backdated to. We will decide whether your claim can be backdated taking into account your circumstances at that time and the funds that are available.

Further information can be found at www.benefit-leaflets.org