With the cost of living still rising across the UK, many families are struggling to stay afloat. That’s why the UK government has continued its Household Support Fund (HSF) into 2025, offering a one-off £200 cost of living payment for eligible households in England. If you’re on a low income, caring for a loved one, or just finding it hard to keep up with bills, this guide explains how to get the help you’re entitled to.
Let’s walk through who qualifies, how to apply, and when you’ll receive the money.
Overview
The £200 cost of living boost is part of a wider government package meant to help with essential expenses like heating, electricity, food, and childcare. It’s distributed through local councils, and eligibility can vary depending on where you live.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | £200 (one-off) |
| Distributed By | Local councils in England |
| Eligibility | Low-income, carers, pensioners, families, disabled |
| Application Requirement | Depends on council – some automatic, others not |
| Payment Window | April 1, 2025 to March 31, 2026 |
| Support Types | Cash, vouchers, food, utility aid |
| Info Website | GOV.UK Cost of Living Help |
£200 Cost of Living Boost
This payment is a non-repayable cash grant to help struggling households. It’s funded by the Household Support Fund, which has been extended for another year with £742 million allocated across England’s councils.
Payments are managed by each local authority, which means application methods and eligibility rules can differ.
It’s not a loan. You don’t need to pay it back. But because council budgets are limited, it’s first-come, first-served—so timing matters.
Who Is Eligible?
Eligibility depends on your council, but these groups are often prioritised:
1. Low-Income Households
If you’re earning under a certain amount and have minimal savings, you could qualify. Example: Dudley Council accepts applications from people earning under £40,000 (£30,000 if single) with less than £2,000 in savings.
2. Pensioners Without Other Help
Some pensioners no longer qualify for Winter Fuel Payments due to changes in thresholds. If you get Council Tax Reduction, councils like Sandwell or Central Bedfordshire may award the £200 automatically.
3. Families with Children
Families with kids on free school meals usually qualify. Councils often issue supermarket vouchers during school holidays alongside the £200 payment.
4. Disabled People or Carers
If you have a disability or provide unpaid care, many councils offer enhanced support even if you’re not on Universal Credit.
5. Households Just Above Benefit Thresholds
Even if you don’t get benefits, you might still qualify. Councils are helping households facing hardship who wouldn’t normally meet benefit eligibility.
Sarah from Leeds
Sarah is a single mum earning £26,000. She doesn’t get Universal Credit but can’t cover food and energy costs. Leeds City Council’s HSF considers her income and childcare expenses, so she could receive both the £200 grant and food vouchers.
How to Apply
Each council handles applications differently. Some pay out automatically to people already on support, while others require you to apply manually.
Step-by-Step Application Guide
- Find Your Council
Use the GOV.UK council finder tool. Search for “Household Support Fund” on your local council’s site. - Check Eligibility
Read the current guidance. Some councils post specific income and savings thresholds. - Gather Documents
Typical requirements include:- Photo ID
- Proof of income (wage slips or benefit letters)
- Recent bank statement
- Council Tax bill
- Apply Online or by Post
Most forms are online, but councils often accept postal or in-person applications too. - Wait for Confirmation
If approved, payment usually lands in your bank within 2 to 4 weeks.
When Will You Get Paid?
Payments began in April 2025 and will run until March 31, 2026. However, funds are limited—once your council runs out, applications close.
Some councils are already making payments automatically to known eligible groups (like pensioners on Council Tax Support), while others plan to open applications by summer.
Tip: Apply as early as possible to avoid missing out.
What Other Help Can You Get?
Even if you’re not eligible for the £200 payment, other support may be available:
- Food Vouchers: Especially for households with children on free school meals
- Utility Grants: Ask your energy supplier about hardship funds
- Council Tax Help: Reduction schemes for carers and low earners
- Free School Meals: May include holiday support or additional HSF help
- Charities: Organisations like Turn2Us, StepChange, and Citizens Advice offer grants and advice
How to Maximise Support
Here are some quick wins to stretch your income further:
- Use a benefits calculator (entitledto.co.uk or Turn2Us)
- Register for your energy supplier’s Priority Services Register
- Check for local foodbanks, charity grants, and community aid
- Ask your council if you qualify for ongoing HSF help—not just the £200
FAQs
Who qualifies for the £200 cost of living payment?
Low-income families, pensioners, carers, and people in hardship may qualify.
Is the £200 payment automatic?
Some councils pay it automatically, others require an application.
When does the scheme run?
From April 2025 to March 31, 2026—or until funds run out.
How do I apply for the £200 support?
Check your local council’s Household Support Fund page for forms.
Can I get other help besides the £200?
Yes, like food vouchers, energy grants, and Council Tax reductions.
