Discretionary Housing Payments
The council can consider awarding a Discretionary Housing
Payment (DHP) if we think you may need help with housing costs or
your Council Tax liability. The fund available to the council is
limited and needs to be fairly distributed to all
eligible persons within the borough. The fund cannot be
exceeded.
Who can request a DHP?
To be considered for a DHP you must be entitled to
Housing and/or Council Tax Benefit
How much DHP could I be entitled to?
A DHP can make up any shortfall between your eligible
rent and/or Council Tax liability that is not covered by
Housing and/or Council Tax Benefit.
How long could I get a DHP for?
A DHP award is designed to be a short term award in
order to assist in a period of financial difficulty. However, there
is no set time limit and the council will consider each case
individually.
How do I apply for a DHP?
You will need to complete a DHP application form. This can
be downloaded at the bottom of this page, you can visit the
Gateway to collect a form or alternatively you can telephone these
offices on 01233 331111 and we will send
you a form through the post. It is advisable to submit a form
as soon as you feel you may need assistance.
How will I find out if I am awarded a DHP?
We will write to you to let you know our decision, even if
we do not award a DHP. As DHP's are not part of the mainstream
benefit scheme there are no formal rights of appeal against
decisions made in respect of them, but you can ask us to look at
your case again if you do not agree with the
decision.
If I am entitled to a DHP how will I receive the
payments?
A DHP award will be paid alongside your normal Housing Benefit
payments, depending on how they are paid. If we make payments
directly to your Landlord, the DHP award will be included with
their normal payments for the duration of the DHP award. If we
make payments directly to your bank account, your usual
payment will also include the DHP entitlement for the
duration of the award. If you are awarded a Council Tax
Benefit DHP this will be credited to your Council Tax
account in the form of a lump sum for the whole of the
award and you will receive a revised
bill.
Downland Application Form 140 KB Word
Document.
This webpage was updated on
5/14/2012