There is no single 'DWP moving grant' — but there is help
- The DWP doesn't run one dedicated moving-house grant. Instead, several schemes can cover moving-related costs if you're on qualifying benefits.
- Which one applies depends on your benefit (Universal Credit vs legacy), your local council, and why you're moving.
Budgeting Advance (Universal Credit)
- Interest-free advance of up to £348 (single), £464 (couple) or £812 (with children) — repaid from future UC payments.
- Can cover removal costs, deposits, essential furniture and white goods.
- You must have been on UC for 6+ months and have less than £1,000 (or £2,000 with a partner) in savings.
Budgeting Loan (legacy benefits)
- Interest-free loan for people on Income Support, income-based JSA, income-related ESA or Pension Credit for 6+ months.
- Between £100 and £812 depending on circumstances.
- Apply through your local Jobcentre Plus or online at gov.uk.
Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP)
- One-off payment from your local council to help with rent, deposits or moving costs.
- Available if you get Housing Benefit or the housing element of UC.
- Not means-tested to a fixed threshold — councils use discretion. Apply through your local council's website.
Household Support Fund
- Every English council gets a share of the Household Support Fund — many use it for one-off crisis payments including moving costs and essential furniture.
- Search 'household support fund [your council]' or ask Citizens Advice.
How to cut moving costs further
- Get 3–5 quotes from vetted movers — prices on identical moves regularly vary by £400+.
- Book mid-week and mid-month to avoid the 15–25% Friday/month-end premium.
- Declutter aggressively — every cubic metre saved reduces van size and price.