Housing Payments (HPs) are only payable if you get housing benefit, or the housing cost element of Universal Credit.
HPs are for people who need extra help with their rent when housing benefit, local housing allowance, or Universal Credit housing costs don’t cover the full amount.
If you are suffering financial hardship or your tenancy is at risk, you may be able to get help from the HP fund.
HPs are not the same as housing benefit or Universal Credit. The government has set restrictions on how much money can be paid out in any financial year. Payments are usually made as a short-term measure for those experiencing difficult circumstances.
You must get either housing benefit or the housing costs element of Universal Credit to be considered for a HP award.
Each council sets it’s own scheme for administering HP.
Read our policy before you make an application.
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Housing payment policy - April 2026
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How to apply
To apply, fill in our online form.
Change of circumstances
If your circumstances change, let us know as this may affect the amount or duration of any HP award.