Who can get extra help
You can apply for a Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP) if you:
- receive Housing Benefit, Local Housing Allowance or Universal Credit (including the housing element)
- live in Birmingham and claim from Birmingham City Council
- can show you have financial need
In some cases, we may pay a DHP to cover a rent deposit, rent in advance or removal costs.
To qualify, you must meet the above criteria and:
- have a valid reason to move
- the property must be affordable
- any deposit amount must be reasonable
A DHP may also be paid if:
- someone in your household has needs related to disability or ill health
- your home has been adapted because of disability
- someone in your household has a relevant medical need
- it is not possible or practical for you to move to alternative accommodation
This is not a full list of circumstances.
What a DHP will not cover
We cannot pay a DHP for:
- water, meals, fuel or other ineligible charges included in your rent
- shortfall in Housing Benefit caused by recovering an overpayment
- rent that is clearly excessive
- increases in rent due to outstanding arrears
- shortfall caused by certain sanctions or reductions in benefit
Page last updated: 12 May 2026
