Thousands of households across the UK are being reminded to act quickly as a vital support deadline approaches. Under the government’s Household Support Fund (HSF), local councils are offering free payments of up to £200 to eligible residents facing financial hardship—but in many areas, the application deadlines are fast approaching or have already passed.
The initiative is part of the government’s ongoing response to the cost of living crisis, and councils are urging eligible households to check now if they can claim before time runs out.
What is the Household Support Fund?
The Household Support Fund was launched in 2021 by the UK Government to help vulnerable households with essential costs such as energy bills, food, and other necessities.
The scheme is funded by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and allocated to local authorities to distribute to residents based on local needs. In the Spring Budget 2024, the government confirmed an additional £1 billion will be provided to extend the fund through 2025 and 2026.
What’s Being Offered and Who’s Eligible?
The support varies by local council, but some councils are offering direct cash payments or vouchers worth £200 to help with everyday expenses. Others provide supermarket or energy vouchers, with the goal of reaching pensioners, low-income households, the disabled, and care leavers.
Examples include:
- Sandwell Council: Sent £200 Post Office vouchers to 4,000 low-income pensioners, redeemable by March 19, 2025.
- East Riding of Yorkshire Council: Offered £200 to pensioners, the disabled, and those in financial crises. The deadline to apply was February 28, 2025.
- North Tyneside Council: Distributed PayPoint vouchers between £150 and £200 in December and January to help with fuel costs.
- Doncaster Council: Offered up to £225 in assistance for eligible households, with a February 28 deadline.
Eligibility criteria vary but typically include being on means-tested benefits, having a low income, or being at risk of financial crisis.
Why You Must Act Now
Most councils are issuing final reminders, and the payments are on a first-come, first-served basis. While some councils have automatic eligibility, many others require residents to apply online or by phone.
The deadlines range by area—with many set for mid-to-late March 2025, and some already expired. Councils emphasize the importance of not waiting until the last minute.
If you’re unsure of your eligibility or the deadline in your area, visit your local council’s website or use the postcode tool on the Gov.uk website to find your local authority’s Household Support Fund page.
How to Apply
To apply for the payment or vouchers:
- Visit your local council’s website.
- Look for the section labeled “Household Support Fund” or “Cost of Living Support”.
- Follow the instructions, which may include proof of income, benefits received, or circumstances such as disability or caring responsibilities.
- Submit your application before the deadline (check your council’s specific date).
In some councils, eligible residents were contacted automatically and did not need to apply. However, this is not consistent nationwide.
Why This Support Matters
With inflation and energy bills still straining household finances, this support could offer a lifeline to those struggling to make ends meet. Councils are under pressure to distribute funds before the end of the financial year, and unused funds may not roll over into the next round.
The DWP encourages residents to take advantage of the support while it’s available.
Where to Get Help
- Gov.uk Council Finder: https://www.gov.uk/find-local-council
- Citizens Advice: Offers help with claiming local support schemes – https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk
- Turn2Us: Free online benefits checker and grant finder – https://www.turn2us.org.uk
Final Reminder
If you or someone you know is eligible for this support, don’t wait. Check your local council’s website now, and apply before it’s too late. This could be your chance to receive up to £200 in free support—just in time to ease the burden of rising costs.
