Discretionary Housing Payment - What is a Discretionary Housing Payment?

A Discretionary Housing Payment is a payment you may receive at the discretion of your local authority which can help towards housing costs. You can only get it if you are entitled to Housing Benefit or the Housing Costs element of Universal Credit.

Applies to: England, Wales and Scotland.

Discretionary Housing Payments are available in Northern Ireland, but paid at a different rate. Eligibility can be complex so speaking to a housing rights adviser is recommended. For more information, please visit the NI Housing Executive website.

Age rules: There are no age rules that affect Discretionary Housing Payment entitlement. However, you must be old enough to have a legally enforceable liability for rent and you must meet the age rules for Housing Benefit or Universal Credit.

Taxable: No

Administered by: Your local authority