If you are claiming housing benefit, or receive housing costs in Universal Credit and you need more help you can apply for a discretionary housing payment.
It is intended as short term help only, to give you the chance to sort out your debts; negotiate a lower rent with your landlord, or to find a cheaper suitable alternative accommodation.
The quickest way to do this is to register for online services or log into your Online Services account. You must have a council tax account number, or a housing benefit/council tax reduction claim reference number to register your application via our customer portal.
Alternatively, if you cannot register for online services, you can complete the online application here.