HOUSEHOLDS struggling to keep up with costs can get up to £300 for free from their local council.
The help comes via the Household Support Fund (HSF) which is worth £842million.
The Household Support Fund varies between councilsAlamy
The pot of money has come from Government which has shared it between councils in England.
They then decide how to distribute their share – some are offering out vouchers while others are making direct cash bank transfers.
For example, if you live in Bury then you could get between £100 and £300 for free.
The money will be paid either via bank transfer or as vouchers and can be used to cover fuel, bill and grocery costs.
Eligibility and how much you get will be based on your income and spending.
You don’t need to be on benefits in order to qualify.
The scheme is open until March 2024 though Bury Council hasn’t said how to apply.
We’ve asked and will update the piece as soon as we know more.
What if my council isn’t listed?
The best thing to do is contact your local council to see what help is on offer and if you have to take any action.
You can do this by using the Government’s locator tool found on its website.
But you might want to be quick as competition for the fund is fierce and once a council has depleted its share, there’s no more left.
That said, the Household Support Fund has been extended multiple times since it was first launched in October 2021 so it might be extended again when the current batch closes, in March 2024.
What other help is available?
Millions are also in line to receive cost of living payments worth up to £1,350.
The first instalment of the £900 payment has been paid to millions on certain benefits, including Universal Credit and Pension Credit.
Meanwhile, a £150 payment and between £150-£300 payment will be made to millions with disabilities and pensioners this month.
You may be entitled to the £150 disability cost of living payment if you receive any of the following benefits:
Attendance AllowanceConstant Attendance AllowanceDisability Living Allowance for adultsDisability Living Allowance for childrenPersonal Independence PaymentAdult Disability Payment (in Scotland)Child Disability Payment (in Scotland)Armed Forces Independence PaymentWar Pension Mobility Supplement
Plus, pensioners who are entitled to a Winter Fuel Payment for winter 2023/24 will get an extra £150 or £300 paid on top of their normal payment from November this year.
You will be eligible for a Winter Fuel Payment this winter if you were born before September 25, 1957.
Those eligible for the payment will receive a letter in October and November telling them how much money to expect.
Energy suppliers also offer plenty of energy grants and schemes to help you out if you’re struggling.
Here’s a list of schemes open right now:
British Gas Energy Trust Individuals and Family FundBritish Gas Energy TrustEDF Customer Support FundE.ON and E.ON Next GrantsOctopus Energy Assist FundOVO EnergyScottish Power Hardship Fund
There’s a one-off fuel voucher from your energy supplier if you’re on a prepayment meter.
Do you have a money problem that needs sorting? Get in touch by emailing [email protected].
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