Who can apply?

You may be eligible if you:

• are 16 or over
• are homeless or at risk of homelessness
• are on a low income and cannot afford a deposit
• live in the Falkirk Council area or have a local connection (see below)

If you're not sure, apply anyway and we’ll assess your circumstances.

What you’ll need to apply

Have these ready before you start:

• Photo ID (for example, passport or driving licence) for applicants. We will also need birth certificates for other household members
• Bank statements for the last 3 months

How to apply

Apply online using the link at the top of this page. If you need help, contact the Housing Options Team (details below).

How much can I get?

We calculate the deposit amount based on your household size and circumstances and the Local Housing Allowance (LHA) rate for the area.

• If approved, Falkirk Council pays the deposit directly to your landlord.
• Your deposit is lodged in an approved tenancy deposit scheme (like any other private tenancy).
• You repay the deposit to Falkirk Council over up to 12 months.

Payment timescale: once awarded, it can take up to 7 days for the payment to reach your landlord. Please factor this into your move in date.

How do I know my deposit is protected?

Your landlord must lodge your deposit in an approved tenancy deposit scheme. You can check this using the scheme's website. You may need your landlord’s reference number and your postcode.

What if my circumstances change?

Tell us as soon as possible (for example, a change in income or benefits). We’ll review your financial assessment and, where possible, agree a realistic repayment plan within the 12month limit and signpost you to support if needed.

What if I move out before I finish repaying?

You must keep making the agreed payments. When your tenancy ends, you may get your deposit back from the tenancy deposit scheme. You can use this to clear any balance you owe the Council or continue with your monthly payments. Please give us your new address so we can keep in touch.

What happens if there's damage or unpaid rent?

The landlord can make a claim through the tenancy deposit scheme’s dispute process. The scheme will assess the claim and pay out according to its terms.

• Taking part is voluntary.
• Please carry out your usual references and credit checks.
• When you receive the deposit, you must lodge it in an approved tenancy deposit scheme within the legal timescale.

You're likely to have a local connection to Falkirk if any of the following apply:

• you currently live here, or have lived here for at least 6 months in the last year, or 3 years in the last 5
• you have close family in the area
• you work in the area
• there are special reasons, such as access to healthcare