The government’s Household Support Fund, extended for the period between October 1, 2024, and March 31, 2025, has been allocated to local councils to provide targeted aid for those most affected by the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. Here’s a closer look at how the scheme works and its potential impact.
Eligibility Criteria for Pensioners
The £200 payment is aimed at low-income pensioner households who:
- Do not receive Pension Credit, a key qualifier for the Winter Fuel Payment.
- Are already receiving Housing Benefit or a Council Tax Reduction.
Local authorities will automatically review existing records to determine eligibility. This automated approach is intended to minimize barriers to access and ensure a wide reach. For households newly assessed for Housing Benefit or Council Tax Reduction after the November 11, 2024 review date, councils will allow manual requests to be submitted for consideration.
Household Support Fund Allocation
The Household Support Fund is being used to meet various local needs:
- Food vouchers for families with children on free school meals.
- Financial aid for carers, with a £50 payment provided to those who care for others at least 35 hours per week.
- Funding to local charities to support low-income households with energy and food costs.
This decentralized model gives councils the flexibility to tailor support to their communities.
Why Pensioners Are Missing Out on Pension Credit
The UK government estimates that many pensioners fail to claim Pension Credit, either due to lack of awareness or perceived barriers to application. By linking eligibility to existing means-tested benefits like Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reduction, the £200 support payment seeks to bridge the gap for those not receiving Pension Credit.
Applying for Support
While many payments will be issued automatically, pensioners not identified in the initial review but meeting the criteria are encouraged to contact their local council. Councils have emphasized that eligibility can be reassessed on request, ensuring that no qualifying household is left behind.
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