Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP) is a short-term payment you can apply for if you claim housing benefit or Universal Credit and cannot afford to pay your rent.

These payments are not designed to be a source of long-term income and it is important to us that we help you to avoid needing this payment in the future.

To find out more read our Background to Discretionary Housing Payments page.

Apply for a Discretionary Housing Payment

This form is for Oxford residents whose postcodes starts with OX1, OX2 OX3 or OX4.

Complete as much of this form as you can and upload the relevant documents. This is to ensure that we can deal with your DHP application efficiently. If you have difficulties completing the form online you can download a paper DHP form or contact a local advice centre for further support.

Please ensure you have the correct evidence to hand before starting your DHP application.

You will need:

  • Proof of Universal Credit (UC)

Your most recent Universal Credit statement showing breakdown of claim including: Standard allowance, housing element, child element (if applicable) and any deductions from UC (benefit cap/bedroom tax).

Follow these simple steps to get your Universal Credit statement from your account.

  • Proof of Rent

For private tenants: A copy of your tenancy agreement which can be a screenshot or a clear photo.
For Housing Association tenants: A copy of your most recent rent statement.

For more information on the application process please read our Apply for a Discretionary Housing Payment page.

This form usually takes about 20 minutes to complete. Please note that after 60 minutes of inactivity the form will time out and any information you have entered will be lost.