Thousands of households across the UK can claim up to £500 in financial support this March, with funds available for food, energy bills, and other essential costs. According to The Express, the Household Support Fund has been extended until the end of March 2025, allowing local councils to distribute payments based on their own criteria.
Unlike previous cost of living payment schemes, you do not need to be receiving benefits to qualify. Each council sets its own eligibility rules and application deadlines, meaning households should check with their local authority to see if they are eligible before the March 31 deadline.
How Much Support Can Households Receive?
The amount each household receives varies by location, as local councils decide how to allocate the funds. Some of the support available includes:
- Solihull Council: Up to £500 in direct debt relief or £147 in energy bill vouchers.
- Camden Council (London): Up to £500 per household, plus £30 supermarket vouchers per eligible child.
- Leeds Council: £40 payments or £150 for pensioners who aren’t eligible for Winter Fuel Payments.
- Calderdale Council: £100 payments for households with children or disabled members.
However, some councils closed applications early due to high demand. Doncaster Council stopped accepting applications on February 28, while North Yorkshire Council closed its scheme on February 15.
Who Is Eligible for the Payments?
According to the UK government’s official website, funding is available for anyone who is struggling to pay for essentials, not just those on benefits. Receiving support from the Household Support Fund will also not affect existing benefits.
Each council sets its own eligibility rules, and some may distribute funds through local charities or community groups rather than direct payments to individuals. In some cases, households may only be allowed to apply once per year.
How to Apply Before the Deadline
With the March 31 deadline approaching, eligible households should check their local council’s website to see if applications are still open and how to apply. Some councils require applications, while others automatically distribute funds to those in need.
Given the varying criteria across different regions, those in need of support should act quickly to avoid missing out on available funding.
