THOUSANDS of households could be eligible for cost of living payments worth £100 – but there’s only one month left to apply.
Those struggling to afford their food and fuel may be entitled to additional cash support made available through their local council.
The Household Support Fund first offered aid to those in need back in 2021[/caption]
The government’s Household Support Fund (HSF) has been extended for a sixth time resulting in £421 million being offered to councils.
Each local authority has control over the redistribution of the cash and now those who receive Council Tax Reduction could be sent the aid directly.
With many households no longer receiving DWP cost of living payments, the extension means that those struggling might still be eligible.
Families or those with disabilities already receiving a council tax reduction could get their hands on £100.
While those without children or an impairment under the disability act could get half of this amount.
To apply, individuals should visit their local council website with each area having different eligibility regulations and funds on offer.
Calderdale Council has revealed their extra financial support closes on February 28 meaning local residents may need to act fast.
Once all of the necessary applications have been sent, individuals should expect their details to be looked at within seven days.
If approved, payment should be received within a further seven.
It’s not just households under this council that are eligible.
For instance, Rotherham Council is now offering struggling families £250 grants to fight the cost of living.
You do not need to be on benefits to apply for the fund.
Newcastle Council has been awarded £2.9million to help struggling families this winter.
Some £950,000 of that fund will be given to those who are pensionable age in receipt of Council Tax Support or Housing Benefit but who don’t qualify for the Winter Fuel Allowance.
Those worried about applying for the fund due to the impact it may have on their existing benefits should not fret.
The HSF should not affect other payments received from the government.
Back in October 2021, the HSF was first set up to offer councils the chance to decide the best way for money to be directed to people living in their area.
This means it can be a postcode lottery depending on who qualifies as each authority sets its own eligibility criteria.
However, those who can provide evidence of little money in their bank or savings have usually been deemed a recipient.
The fifth round of the funding closed in September with the current extension of the scheme expected until April.
The Sun previously revealed a full list of councils providing extra support for pensioners this winter through the fund.
Household Support Fund explained
Sun Savers Editor Lana Clements explains what you need to know about the Household Support Fund.
If you’re battling to afford energy and water bills, food or other essential items and services, the Household Support Fund can act as a vital lifeline.
The financial support is a little-known way for struggling families to get extra help with the cost of living.
Every council in England has been given a share of £421million cash by the government to distribute to local low income households.
Each local authority chooses how to pass on the support. Some offer vouchers whereas others give direct cash payments.
In many instances, the value of support is worth hundreds of pounds to individual families.
Just as the support varies between councils, so does the criteria for qualifying.
Many councils offer the help to households on selected benefits or they may base help on the level of household income.
The key is to get in touch with your local authority to see exactly what support is on offer.
And don’t delay, the scheme has been extended until April 2025 but your council may dish out their share of the Household Support Fund before this date.
Once the cash is gone, you may find they cannot provide any extra help so it’s crucial you apply as soon as possible.
Do you have a money problem that needs sorting? Get in touch by emailing money-sm@news.co.uk.
Plus, you can join our Sun Money Chats and Tips Facebook group to share your tips and stories
The cash payments have been put in place to help those struggling to pay for food or fuel[/caption]
