Updated October 2026 · Fraser Bond
Help with moving costs
There's no single national moving grant, but several schemes can help
DHPdeposits & rent
AdvanceUC budgeting
Councildeposit schemes
Localcrisis support
In short: There isn't a general government grant for moving house. If you're on a low income or benefits, help can come from Discretionary Housing Payments (for deposits or rent in advance), council rent deposit or bond schemes, Universal Credit budgeting advances, and local welfare or crisis support schemes run by councils. Use the calculator to plan what you'll need.
| Type of help | What it covers | Who can apply |
|---|---|---|
| Discretionary Housing Payment | Deposit, rent in advance, short-term shortfalls | People getting Housing Benefit or UC housing element |
| Council deposit or bond scheme | Deposit guarantee or loan | Often households at risk of homelessness |
| UC budgeting advance | Interest-free advance repaid from UC | Eligible UC claimants |
| Local welfare / crisis support | Essential furniture, white goods, emergency costs | Varies by council |
| Charities and grants | Furniture, removals for specific groups | Varies (e.g. veterans, disability charities) |
Moving costs planner
Deposit (5 weeks)–
First month's rent–
Total moving costs–
Left to fund after help–
Agent fees are banned for tenants in England, and rent in advance is capped at one month.
Apply in this order
Frequently asked questions
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Is there a government grant for moving house?
Not a general one. Help is targeted at people on low incomes or at risk of homelessness.
Can a DHP pay my deposit?
Yes, councils can use DHPs for deposits and rent in advance in some cases.
Do I have to repay a budgeting advance?
Yes, it's repaid through deductions from your Universal Credit.
