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  • Discretionary Housing Payments (DHP)

Discretionary Housing Payments

If you are still experiencing difficulty paying your rent or Council Tax after you have been awarded benefit the council could give you more money for a short period of time to help you if you are experiencing financial hardship this is called a discretionary housing payment.

This help comes from a separate fund which is subject to a limit each financial year and does not form part of the housing benefit scheme. The fund is limited and once it has all been used is not replenished until the next financial year so it cannot be guaranteed and is only a temporary solution.

Discretionary housing payments are payable for a maximum 13 weeks (although in certain circumstances you might be able to re-apply when it runs out) and are designed to provide protection from hardship while you secure more affordable accommodation or improve your financial situation.

If you want to apply for a discretionary housing payment please contact the housing benefit department (0845 12 11 555 or email benefits@hambleton.gov.uk ). Your application will be forwarded to the housing department who will contact you to arrange a visit where they will collect details of your income and expenditure. A decision will be made and you will be informed if you qualify and how much extra you are going to get. If successful the award will be paid along with your housing benefit.

For further information: DHP policy document Opens in a new window