MILLIONS of Brits struggling for cash have just days left to claim free financial support as winter draws to a close.
The government run Household Support Fund (HSF) is due to end imminently – here’s the help you can claim before it finishes.
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Since October 2021, the HSF has been offering support to vulnerable residents in different forms – from supermarket vouchers to white goods.
The scheme is set to end March 31 after a total of six months – but some councils have cut-offs sooner than this.
The funding was provided to cover the winter period when bills usually soar.
But this year, the typical winter strain has worsened as a result of the cost of living crisis.
And from April 1, the price cap will be increasing by 54%, meaning energy bills will rise by a record £693 a year, affecting roughly 22 million customers.
So it’s important for thousands of eligible Brits to apply for the HSF cash while they can.
In total, a £500million pot has been dished out to local councils across the country, with each area receiving funding based on its size and need.
To find your local authority, you can use the government’s local council checker tool.
How to apply for £800 free cash
Runnymede Borough Council is awarding households up to £800 each from its portion of the HSF pot.
Residents of Runnymede have until March 25 to apply for the help, as applications will not be accepted after this date.
Eligible households can apply for money towards more than one cost, such as food, utility bills, and white goods.
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Though the money is capped at £800 no matter what the costs are going towards.
The council’s website includes an extensive table outlining what the cash can be used for, and the budget for each cost.
For example, households can apply for £800 towards rent arrears or council tax arrears, but this means they can’t apply for cash towards any other costs.
Others may wish to repair or replace their white goods, and they get up to £500 to help, meaning they have some budget left to apply for cash towards other bills or costs.
But note that the cash is given on a case by case basis, and some families will be entitled to more than others, such as those with kids.
To apply, you’ll need to register on Grant Approval and provide the required information in full – which includes bank details and proof of ID.
If you don’t live in Runnymede but you still need the help, your local council may still be offering support as part of the HSF – check now.
And Runnymede isn’t the only council with a deadline earlier than March 31 – here’s a list of other councils with early cut offs.
If you find out you’re not eligible for the scheme but still require support with your bills, there are other means to get help.
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