THOUSANDS of households can get £270 free cash for help towards grocery and bill costs.
The cost of living is extremely high and many are struggling to make ends meet.
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But some households will be able to get some help for their food and other essential costs.
The money comes as part of the Household Support Fund, which is worth £842million.
The money has come from the Government which has distributed it among councils in England.
They then decide how to share their portion of the fund.
That means what you can get depends on where you live, but in most cases help is offered to those on a low income or benefits.
The type of support on offer varies as well – some local authorities are offering out food or utility bill vouchers while others are making bank transfers.
You might even get help buying white goods such as fridges and washing machines.
For example, those living in Shoprshire can get £270 for free.
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Those who are eligible for the help include:
- Pensioners in receipt of council tax support who do not get pension credit
- Households in receipt of council tax support where Carers allowance is in payment
- Households in receipt of council tax support where a child qualifies for disability benefit
- Households who get council tax support where a non-dependent is in receipt of disability benefits
- Households where there is a carers disregard on the council tax
- Households where there is a disabled band relief on the council tax
The money will be sent directly via bank transfer by the Autumn.
It will be sent automatically – those eligible do not need to apply.
However, if you do think you qualify it’s always worth contacting Shoprshire council to see if you can get the £270 or any other help it offers.
How do I apply for the Household Support Fund?
Some households will be notified that they can apply for cash help and others will receive the cash automatically.
Again, your council will set out whether or not you need to apply for the free cash.
Those who live in Torbay and think they’re eligible for the Household Support Fund will need to apply by filling in an online form.
You can locate the form on Torbay Council’s website.
What if I don’t live in Shropshire?
Your local council will likely have its own version of the scheme going and you should get in contact with them to find out more.
For example, thousands of residents in Cornwall can get £160 in support.
Those who apply will get two payments of £80 directly into their bank accounts.
Those living in Medway in Kent, can apply for up to £210 in support.
Eligible households can get vouchers for food costs and energy bills.
Check with your local council to see what support is on offer.
What other help is available?
Millions are also in line to receive cost of living payments worth up to £1,350.
The first instalment of the £900 payment is currently being paid to millions on certain benefits, including Universal Credit and Pension Credit, as of April 25
Meanwhile, a £150 payment and between £150-£300 payment will be made to millions with disabilities and pensioners.
You may be entitled to the £150 disability cost of living payment if you receive any of the following benefits:
- Attendance Allowance
- Constant Attendance Allowance
- Disability Living Allowance for adults
- Disability Living Allowance for children
- Personal Independence Payment
- Adult Disability Payment (in Scotland)
- Child Disability Payment (in Scotland)
- Armed Forces Independence Payment
- War Pension Mobility Supplement
If you are eligible for the payment, it will be made this summer.
Meanwhile, pensioners who are entitled to a Winter Fuel Payment for winter 2023/24 will get an extra £150 or £300 paid on top of their normal payment from November this year.
You will be eligible for a Winter Fuel Payment this winter if you were born before September 25, 1957.
Those eligible for the payment will receive a letter in October and November telling them how much money to expect.
Energy suppliers also offer plenty of energy grants and schemes to help you out if you’re struggling.
Here’s a list of schemes open right now:
- ritish Gas Energy Trust Individuals and Family Fund
- British Gas Energy Trust
- EDF Customer Support Fund
- E.ON and E.ON Next Grants
- Octopus Energy Assist Fund
- OVO Energy
- Scottish Power Hardship Fund
There’s a one-off fuel voucher from your energy supplier if you’re on a prepayment meter.
This post first appeared on thesun.co.uk
