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 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.
[bc_video account_id=”5067014667001″ application_id=”” aspect_ratio=”16:9″ autoplay=”” caption=”Support Fund Boost: Up to £500 Grants for Struggling Households” embed=”in-page” experience_id=”” height=”100%” language_detection=”” max_height=”360px” max_width=”640px” min_width=”0px” mute=”” padding_top=”56%” picture_in_picture=”” player_id=”default” playlist_id=”” playsinline=”” sizing=”responsive” video_id=”6361008938112″ video_ids=”” width=”640px”]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.
