Emergency support

Discretionary housing payments are made towards housing costs where a person receives Housing Benefit or the housing element of Universal Credit and they need help with:

• a shortfall in rent     
• an advance in rent or a deposit   
• rent arrears (extreme cases only)  
• Removal costs only

It is not automatically awarded because your Housing Benefit or Universal Credit does not cover your rent.

What You will need to apply 

• Your Universal Credit letter.
• Proof of income for any non-dependent individuals in your household.
• Completed budget planner.
• The most recent three months of bank or building society statements for all accounts held.
• Evidence of the rent you owe, including any repayment plans and the exact amount if you're behind on payments.
• Letters from any debt or financial assistance agencies detailing your current financial situation.
• Proof that you're actively searching for more affordable housing options, like letters from your landlord, offers you've received on Home Swap, and details of properties you've viewed.
• Letters or emails related to job applications and interviews.
   

What is not covered

Discretionary housing payments cannot be used to cover:

• Increases in rent due to outstanding rent arrears
• Sanctions and reductions in benefit
• Benefit suspensions
• Shortfalls caused by Housing Benefit  or Universal Credit over payment recovery

Eligibility

To be eligible for discretionary housing payments, you must:

• receive Housing Benefit from Croydon Council or the housing element of Universal Credit
• have an affordable long term solution
• have a fully completed budget planner including income and expenses

Apply for a discretionary housing payment

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