With prices on the rise across groceries, energy, and rent, many UK households are feeling the financial pressure. To help ease the strain, the government is rolling out a £90 Cost of Living Payment in July 2025. Funded through the Household Support Fund (HSF), this payment is meant to support vulnerable individuals and families struggling with daily expenses.
Whether you’re retired, working part-time, on benefits, or simply finding it harder to get by, knowing how this works can make a real difference.
Payment
The £90 Cost of Living Payment is a one-off support payment offered under the expanded Household Support Fund, running from Junly 2025 to March 2026. It’s tax-free, doesn’t affect your benefits, and doesn’t need to be paid back. Councils across England are distributing this money based on local needs.
Here’s a quick look at how it works:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | £90 |
| Distribution Period | July 2025 |
| Administered By | Local councils under the Household Support Fund |
| Total Funding (2025–2026) | £742 million |
| Official Info Source | GOV.UK Household Support Fund Guidance |
Fund
The Household Support Fund was first introduced in 2021 and has since been extended multiple times. It allows local councils to support those facing financial hardship by providing flexible aid like food vouchers, utility grants, and white goods.
Each council can choose how to distribute the money based on local priorities.
Types of support available under the scheme:
- Food and supermarket vouchers
- Utility bill help (gas, electricity, water)
- White goods like fridges or cookers
- Support with school meals during holidays
- Winter clothing and bedding
- Broadband or mobile data vouchers
Eligibility
Your eligibility depends on your local council’s criteria, but here are the most common qualifying groups:
1. People on Benefits
Includes those receiving:
- Universal Credit
- Pension Credit
- Income Support
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
2. Low-Income Households
If you don’t receive benefits but have a low income or savings under £2,000, you may still qualify. Councils may look at:
- Recent income drops
- Minimum income thresholds
- Essential household expenses
3. Families with Children
This includes:
- Families receiving Free School Meals
- Households with children under age 5
- Parents facing high childcare costs
4. Disabled People
If you receive:
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Attendance Allowance
You may be eligible for support, especially if you have high utility costs.
Councils like Torbay are giving £100 to eligible households, while others like East Riding of Yorkshire are offering up to £425 depending on household size and savings.
Application
Each council has its own process. Generally, there are two ways to get the £90 payment:
A. Automatic Payment
Some councils will send money or vouchers automatically to:
- Free School Meals recipients
- People on Council Tax Reduction
- Housing Benefit claimants
B. Application Required
Others may require you to apply online or in person. You may need to submit:
- Bank statements
- Benefit letters
- Proof of identity or address
Tip: Apply early. Funds are often limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Timing
Payments will be made throughout July 2025. Exact dates vary by council. If extra checks are needed, you might not receive your payment until late July or even early August.
To stay informed, regularly check your local council’s website or contact them directly.
Support
Aside from the £90 payment, here’s what else the Household Support Fund may offer:
1. Energy Help
Example: Rotherham Council is offering up to £250 in help for gas and electricity bills.
2. Holiday Food Vouchers
Example: Cambridgeshire gives up to £275 in supermarket vouchers to families during summer holidays.
3. Help for Young Adults
Manchester is offering housing support and weekly allowances to care leavers under 25.
4. Household Goods
Some councils help with fridges, cookers, beds, or emergency clothing for those in crisis.
Others are offering broadband vouchers to help families stay connected for work or school.
Advice
If you think you qualify or want to help someone else apply:
- Check your council’s website now
- Get your documents ready (income, ID, tenancy)
- Visit Citizens Advice for free local support
- Be careful of scams—always use official government or council websites
The £90 payment is more than just a one-time boost—it can be a gateway to other forms of vital support. Make sure you or those you care for don’t miss out.
FAQs
Who gets the £90 payment in July 2025?
Those on benefits, low income, or with dependent children may qualify.
Is the £90 taxable or repayable?
No, it’s tax-free, doesn’t affect benefits, and doesn’t need repaying.
Do all councils give the payment automatically?
No, some require an application. Check your local council’s site.
Can I apply if I don’t get benefits?
Yes, if your income is low or you’ve recently faced hardship.
When will I get the £90 payment?
Payments are made throughout July 2025—dates vary by council.
