Millions of UK households are struggling with rising living costs, but the government has introduced several financial support schemes to help those in need. If you’re facing difficulties paying your bills, you may be eligible for up to £300 in financial aid, with some additional support available for pensioners and people with disabilities.

Here’s a complete breakdown of the financial support you could receive, who qualifies, and how to claim it.

1. Cost of Living Payments – Up to £900 in Total

The government has rolled out a Cost of Living Payment scheme for low-income households receiving specific benefits. If you qualify, you may receive up to £900 in three instalments.

How Much Will You Get?

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

These payments are automatic, meaning eligible individuals don’t need to apply—the money will be sent directly to their bank accounts.

Who Qualifies?

You’ll receive the payment if you were receiving any of the following benefits during the qualifying periods:

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

2. Pensioner Cost of Living Payment – Up to £300 Extra

If you’re a pensioner, you may receive an extra £300 as part of your Winter Fuel Payment. This is in addition to the standard winter payment of £100 to £300, which is designed to help with heating costs.

Who Qualifies?

You’re eligible if:

• You were born before September 25, 1957
• You receive the Winter Fuel Payment

Like the Cost of Living Payment, this amount is also paid automatically if you qualify.

For more details, visit: Winter Fuel Payment – GOV.UK

3. Disability Cost of Living Payment – £150 for Those on Disability Benefits

People with disabilities are also entitled to extra financial support. If you receive disability benefits, you should have received a £150 one-off payment during the summer of 2023.

Who Qualifies?

This payment is available to those receiving:

• Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
• Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
• Attendance Allowance
• Armed Forces Independence Payment
• War Pension Mobility Supplement

For more details, visit: Disability Cost of Living Payment – GOV.UK

4. Household Support Fund – Extra Help from Your Local Council

For those struggling with day-to-day expenses, local councils have been given additional funding to provide financial aid through the Household Support Fund. Depending on where you live, you could receive:

• Cash payments
• Supermarket vouchers
• Help with energy bills

Support varies by council, so it’s best to check with your local authority to see what’s available. Some councils offer grants of up to £500 to qualifying residents.

Find your local council and apply here: Household Support Fund – GOV.UK

5. Winter Fuel Payment – Up to £300 for Pensioners

If you’re over 66 years old, you may qualify for the Winter Fuel Payment, which helps with heating costs during the colder months.

How Much Will You Get?

• £100 to £300 – Based on your age and living situation
• An extra £300 if you also qualify for the Pensioner Cost of Living Payment

For more details, visit: Winter Fuel Payment – GOV.UK

How to Check If You’re Eligible

Most payments are made automatically, but you should still check if you qualify, especially for benefits like Pension Credit, which could unlock additional support.

Use the official benefits calculator to check your eligibility: Benefits Calculator – GOV.UK

Beware of Scams

Since these payments are automatic, be wary of scams. The government will not contact you by text, email, or phone asking for personal details to process these payments.

• Do not share your bank details with anyone claiming to be from the DWP.
• If in doubt, contact the DWP directly or visit GOV.UK for official information.

Conclusion

The government has rolled out various forms of support to help struggling households. If you’re eligible, you could receive up to £900 in Cost of Living Payments, £300 in Pensioner Payments, or £150 for disability support not to mention additional local council assistance.

To maximize your support, make sure you check your eligibility, apply for any additional benefits, and stay updated with government announcements.