What is a Discretionary Housing Payment?
Discretionary Housing Payments (DHPs) provide customers in receipt of Housing Benefit or Universal Credit with Housing Costs further financial assistance if they are in exceptional need with their housing costs. It is in addition to any other Welfare Benefit.
In general housing costs means rental liability, but housing costs are interpreted more widely to include:
- Rent in advance
- Rent deposit
- Other lump sum costs associated with a housing need such as removal costs or credit checks for letting agents.
The UK Government provides each Local Authority with a cash-limited budget each financial year to help those in greatest need, so a completed application form is required in order to decide if a Discretionary Housing Payment can be awarded.
Can I claim a Discretionary Housing Payment?
A DHP can only be awarded where a claimant is entitled/receives:
- Housing Benefit or
- Universal Credit that includes a housing element towards rent and applicant requires further financial assistance with housing costs and lives within Conwy Borough.
How do I claim a Discretionary Housing Payment?
A claim for a DHP must be made on a claim form issued by Conwy County Borough Council.
Simply download the form (PDF, 306Kb) print out at home or at one of our libraries
The completed form should be returned to:
Housing Benefit Office
PO Box 1
Conwy
LL30 9GN
If you require a paper form, or any help in completing the form; or have any other questions, you can contact a member of the team or visit one of our offices with the Conwy County.
Benefits Policy Document (PDF)