With the cost of living continuing to rise, many UK households are struggling to keep up with essential expenses such as energy bills, food, and other necessities. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has introduced various support schemes to help those on low incomes manage these increasing costs. If you are eligible, you could receive up to £300 in financial assistance through different government programs.

Here’s a full breakdown of the support available, who qualifies, and how to claim.

Cost of Living Payments

The Cost of Living Payment is designed to support people on certain means-tested benefits. These payments are made automatically to those who qualify, without the need for an application.

Who is Eligible?

You may be eligible if you receive one of the following benefits:

• Universal Credit
• Pension Credit
• Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
• Income Support
• Working Tax Credit
• Child Tax Credit

Payment Breakdown

The government has divided the Cost of Living Payment into three separate installments:

• £301 – Paid between April and May 2023
• £300 – Paid between October and November 2023
• £299 – Scheduled for February 2024

Each installment is paid automatically into the bank account where you receive your benefits. You do not need to apply for this support.

Find out more on the official UK Government website: gov.uk

Household Support Fund (HSF)

The Household Support Fund is a grant distributed by local councils to help vulnerable households cover essential costs, such as food, clothing, and utility bills. The amount and type of support vary depending on your local authority.

Who is Eligible?

Eligibility for the Household Support Fund varies by council, but it is typically available to:

• Low-income households
• Pensioners
• People with disabilities
• Families receiving free school meals

How Much Can You Get?

Local councils determine how much support they provide. For example:

• Blackpool Council offers £200–£300 for energy bills.
• Leicestershire County Council provides grants of up to £300 per household.

How to Apply

You will need to apply through your local council. Each council has its own application process, so check your local authority’s website for details.

Find your local council and apply here: gov.uk

Winter Fuel Payment

The Winter Fuel Payment is an annual payment designed to help older people with their heating costs during the colder months.

Who is Eligible?

You may qualify if you were born before 25 September 1958 and live in the UK. The payment is made automatically if you receive:

• State Pension
• Other social security benefits (excluding Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction, Child Benefit, or Universal Credit)

How Much Can You Get?

The amount you receive depends on your age and living circumstances:

• £250 to £300 if you are under 80
• £300 to £600 if you are 80 or older

How to Claim

Most people receive this payment automatically. However, if you have not received it before, you may need to apply by contacting the Winter Fuel Payment Centre.

Warm Home Discount Scheme

The Warm Home Discount Scheme provides a one-off discount on electricity bills for low-income households.

Who is Eligible?

You could qualify if you receive:

• Pension Credit (Guarantee Credit element)
• Certain means-tested benefits and meet your energy supplier’s low-income criteria

How Much Can You Get?

A £150 discount is applied directly to your electricity bill between October and March.

How to Apply

Most eligible households receive this discount automatically. If you think you qualify but haven’t received it, check with your energy supplier.

More details on eligibility and application: gov.uk

Cold Weather Payment

The Cold Weather Payment provides financial assistance when temperatures drop significantly during the winter months.

Who is Eligible?

You may be eligible if you receive:

• Pension Credit
• Universal Credit (with a health condition or caring responsibilities)
• Income-based JSA or ESA

How Much Can You Get?

£25 for each 7-day period of freezing weather between November and March.

How to Claim

This payment is made automatically to eligible individuals. If you think you should have received it but didn’t, contact your benefits office.

Check if your area qualifies for Cold Weather Payments: gov.uk

How to Stay Updated on Government Support

The government periodically updates its financial support programs. To ensure you don’t miss out on any assistance, regularly check:

• The DWP website: gov.uk/dwp
• Your local council’s website for Household Support Fund updates
• Your energy supplier’s website for Warm Home Discount details

Final Thoughts

With energy prices and general living costs continuing to rise, many households need extra support to make ends meet. The DWP provides a range of financial aid programs to help those in need, including Cost of Living Payments, Winter Fuel Payments, and the Household Support Fund.

If you think you’re eligible for any of these schemes, it’s essential to check official sources and apply where necessary. Most payments are made automatically, but some require applications through local councils or energy suppliers.