British households are being reminded of an important cost of living payment, which could see thousands of people receive a free £500 payment directly into their accounts, but who is eligible?
This money is set aside for those seeking assistance in paying their food and energy expenses, which have reached unprecedented levels in recent years and remain rather high for many households.
What Does this Cost of Living Payment Entail?
The free £500 is accessible thanks to the Government's Household Support Fund, which provides funds to local governments.
Councils get funding, which they subsequently distribute to qualifying claimants in their area.
However, each council receives a different percentage of the cash based on the size of their catchment area, population, and number of homes in need.
The amount of money received will be determined by the individual's circumstances as well as the amount received by their local government.
Who Qualifies for the Cost of Living Payment?
Brent is the latest local council to provide £500 in cost of living assistance.
The Brent Resident Support Fund (RSF) was established to assist residents who are struggling to handle growing prices for products and services, as well as rising energy bills.
If you live in Brent, are above the age of 18, and have less than £6,000 in your bank account, you can apply for help through the council's website.
Applicants must also prove that they require financial assistance to help them cope with the expense of living.
The full list of qualification requirements for the Household Support Fund funds can be found on the Brent Council website.
Here are some additional prerequisites that anyone interested in applying should consider:
- Applicants must not request support to pay for an excluded item.
- Applicants must be ready to comply with any reasonable demands regarding the payment award, such as support from advising agencies.
- Applicants must not have applied for support in the last 12 rolling months.
Can People Residing Outside of Brent Receive a Cost of Living Payment?
Britons are invited to use the Government's council finder tool to obtain contact information for their local authority and inquire about any available assistance.
Once this is completed, households can apply for support specific to their location.
It should be noted that each local government will have a unique application process and eligibility requirements.
Notably, some councils will not require residents to seek for assistance because they will contact them immediately instead.
Blackpool council, for example, provides free £300 to disadvantaged people as part of its cost of living support.
Furthermore, residents living in Bracknell Forest were entitled to up to £315 in free cash.