 which is worth £842million. 1 The Household Support Fund varies between councils Credit: Alamy The pot of money has come from Government which has shared it between councils in England. They then decide how to distribute their share - some are offering out vouchers while others are making direct cash bank transfers. For example, if you live in Bury then you could get between £100 and £300 for free. The money will be paid either via bank transfer or as vouchers and can be used to cover fuel, bill and grocery costs. Eligibility and how much you get will be based on your income and spending. You don't need to be on benefits in order to qualify. The scheme is open until March 2024 though Bury Council hasn't said how to apply. We've asked and will update the piece as soon as we know more. What if my council isn't listed? The best thing to do is contact your local council to see what help is on offer and if you have to take any action. You can do this by using the Government's locator tool found on its website. But you might want to be quick as competition for the fund is fierce and once a council has depleted its share, there's no more left. That said, the Household Support Fund has been extended multiple times since it was first launched in October 2021 so it might be extended again when the current batch closes, in March 2024. What other help is available? The first instalment of the £900 payment has been paid to millions on certain benefits, including Universal Credit and Pension Credit. Meanwhile, a £150 payment and between £150-£300 payment will be made to millions with disabilities and pensioners this month. 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){kind=link}
HOUSEHOLDS struggling to keep up with costs can get up to £300 for free from their local council.
The help comes via the Household Support Fund (HSF) which is worth £842million.
The pot of money has come from Government which has shared it between councils in England.
They then decide how to distribute their share – some are offering out vouchers while others are making direct cash bank transfers.
For example, if you live in Bury then you could get between £100 and £300 for free.