MARTIN Lewis is urging struggling households to apply for up to £1,500 in extra cash to help with soaring energy bills.
Grants worth as much as £1,500 are being handed out to those most in need from Friday.
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The British Gas Energy Trust offers support to help those struggling with their energy debts.
The supplier already offers its customers grants of up to £750 if they’re struggling with energy costs through a £6million fund.
But a separate scheme will open again for any one who needs help, regardless of their supplier.
This is called The British Gas Energy Trust Individual and Families Fund.
To qualify for the scheme, you’ll need to have an energy debt of between £250 and £750 and have less than £1,000 in savings.
You also can’t have received a grant from either of the funds in the last two years.
Martin Lewis has explained in his latest MoneySavingExpert newsletter that the application and eligibility can be tricky and that it is often easier to apply for the fund through a charity.
The financial guru said the main ones who can help are National Energy Action, Home Energy Scotland and Citizens Advice.
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Energy Bills have rocketed in recent months as the price cap limiting bills for millions of billpayers shot up to 54%.
And a further £1,000 could be added to the average duel fuel bill again in October.
Several energy suppliers offer grants to struggling customers through hardship funds.
But The British Gas Energy Trust is unusual in that it also offers grants to non-customers.
You can apply through the British Gas Energy Trust website.
As there’s likely to be a high demand, be aware that the cash is likely to go to those most in need.
The applications also take time to process, so you won’t get your cash straight away.
It is worth checking with your own provider if they can offer you any help.
Scottish Power, Octopus Energy and Bulb are among those offering hardship funds.
The amounts and edibility vary for each company.
Can I apply for The British Gas Energy Trust grant?
To apply for the grant of up to £1,500, you must live in England, Scotland or Wales and have not received the grant in the last two years.
You must also be apply for the grant to clear an outstanding debt on a current or open gas, electricity or dual fuel energy account in your name, or be a member of the household.
The energy account must also be registered to your main home.
You can also apply if you have less than £1,000 in savings and have received help from a money advice agency.
How can I apply?
To apply for the grant, you will need to have the following bits of information handy:
Proof of money advice received in the last three months
Proof of all household income, including three recent consecutive wage slips or benefit statements that are less than a year old
A meter read of your gas and electricity account, if you’re a British Gas customer, or your most recent gas and electricity bill.
I’m struggling with my bills – what can I do?
There are a number of charities and organizations that may be able to help you piece your finances back together.
You can get in touch with these organisations as they may be able to help you get your finances back on track:
National Debtline – 0808 808 4000
Step Change – 0800 138 1111
Citizens Advice – 0808 800 9060
Energy suppliers also have schemes in place where you can apply for free grants to put towards your energy bills.
You can also apply to wipe your energy debt clear, or get money for energy efficient appliances.
Here’s the full list of energy suppliers handing out help and information on how to apply.
Councils also have schemes you can apply to – such as the Household Support Fund and welfare assistance programmes.
You can also get up to £1,000 in cash if you apply to your local council’s welfare assistance scheme.
