THOUSANDS of households missing out on a free £150 may be able to apply for the cost of living cash injection now.
Families in Devon are eligible for a council tax rebate as part of the government’s initiative to help with rising energy costs.
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Those who pay their council tax via direct debit can expect to have the money in their account within 10 days of applying.
For residents who pay their council tax by cash, an application will be required with the correct account number from their bill.
A cheque will then be sent out in the mail – but some MPs are worried people aren’t aware of the scheme, Devon Live reports.
Of the 11,105 households in the area that pay their tax to East Devon Council by direct debit, almost half are yet to claim the £150 cash back.
Another 2,670 eligible households have not yet submitted a claim for the rebate, according to Mid Devon Council.
Christine Jardine MP said the number of families missing out on the vital support in such tough times was “staggering” .
She said: “The Conservatives simply aren’t doing enough to help people with this cost of living emergency, and even the meagre help they are offering isn’t reaching those who need it.
“Often those who don’t pay council tax by direct debit are older and more deprived, meaning some of these households are likely to be among the most vulnerable in the country.
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“Rishi Sunak must confirm that anyone that misses out on this rebate will get their £150 cheque in the post.
“No-one should go without the help they need because of this Conservative government’s incompetence.”
Richard Foord, Liberal Democrat candidate for Tiverton and Honiton, said many residents in the area are struggling to afford “sky-rocketing” prices.
How can I get help with my bills?
As well as Government initiatives to help with the cost of living price hike, there are other schemes in place to alleviate some of the burden.
If you’re struggling with energy bills, some power suppliers have options to apply for free grants.
It can be helpful to figure out what items in your home guzzle electricity and what are some energy efficient appliances.
Click here for 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.
Help you can get varies from council to council under the Household Support scheme, but you can get vouchers or cash to put towards your energy bills.
While you can get up to £1,000 in cash if you apply to your local council’s welfare assistance scheme.
If you are struggling with your bills then there are a number of charities and organisations which may be able to help:
There are also grants available that could support you making bill payments.
There are around 8,000 charities and organisations in the UK that offer cash to help struggling families.
This could help with food, bills or buying essential white goods like a cooker or washing machine if you don’t have the cash to hand.
Turn2Us has a free grants search tool so you can find out what help is available to you.
