Struggling households across the UK can now apply for a £150 Cost of Living Voucher to help cover essential expenses. The initiative, funded by the Household Support Fund (HSF), aims to support low-income families and individuals facing financial hardship amid the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.

The vouchers can be used at major supermarkets for essential groceries, providing much-needed relief for those struggling with rising food prices. This article explores who is eligible, how to apply, and where the voucher can be used.

What is the £150 Cost of Living Voucher?

The UK government has allocated £842 million to extend the Household Support Fund (HSF) until March 2025, ensuring continued financial support for vulnerable households. This funding is distributed to local councils, which then allocate aid based on their community’s needs.

As part of this initiative, eligible individuals and families can receive a £150 supermarket voucher to help with grocery expenses. The voucher is not a loan and does not need to be repaid, making it an effective way to ease financial strain for struggling households.

The Household Support Fund has previously helped thousands of families cover essential costs, including food, utilities, and other household necessities.

Who is Eligible for the £150 Voucher?

Each local council sets its own criteria for who qualifies for the voucher, but eligibility generally includes:

• Low-income households struggling to afford essential items.
• Residents of the council’s jurisdiction where the application is being made.
• People on benefits such as Universal Credit, Pension Credit, or Housing Benefit.
• Households with children eligible for free school meals.
• Pensioners on low incomes, particularly those receiving Pension Credit.

How to Apply for the £150 Voucher

Applying for the voucher is straightforward, but applicants should act quickly as some councils have strict deadlines. Follow these steps to apply:

1. Check Eligibility

Visit your local council’s website to see if you meet their criteria. Each council has different rules, so it’s essential to confirm before applying.

2. Submit an Application

Most councils allow online applications via their official websites. Some may require you to call or visit in person to complete the process. Be prepared to provide:

• Proof of address (utility bill, council tax statement)
• Proof of income or benefits
• National Insurance number

3. Receive and Use the Voucher

If approved, you’ll receive a £150 voucher, either digitally or as a physical card, which can be used at participating supermarkets. Some councils may provide the voucher via email or text message.

Which Supermarkets Accept the Voucher?

The voucher can be redeemed at several major UK supermarkets, including:

• Tesco
• Asda
• Aldi
• Sainsbury’s
• Morrisons
• Iceland
• Farmfoods
• Marks & Spencer
• Waitrose

These retailers allow customers to use the vouchers for essential food and household goods. However, vouchers cannot be used for alcohol, tobacco, lottery tickets, or non-essential items.

For a full list of supermarkets accepting the vouchers, check with your local council.

Additional Financial Support Available

Beyond the £150 voucher, households facing financial hardship may be eligible for other forms of government assistance:

1. Energy Bill Support

Local councils may provide one-off payments to help cover gas and electricity bills. Some energy suppliers also offer hardship grants. Check eligibility at Ofgem’s energy grants page.

2. Free School Meal Vouchers

Families with school-age children may qualify for free school meal vouchers, providing additional financial relief during holidays.

3. Pensioner Cost of Living Payment

Pensioners receiving Pension Credit may qualify for extra financial aid. Visit GOV.UK’s Pension Credit page for details.

4. Emergency Food Parcels

Local food banks offer emergency food parcels for those in immediate need. Contact The Trussell Trust to find your nearest food bank.

Key Deadlines – Act Fast

Some councils have set strict deadlines for voucher applications. In certain areas, applications must be submitted by mid-April 2025, while others have an earlier cut-off.

Check your local council’s website now to avoid missing out! Use the GOV.UK council finder to get started.

Conclusion

The £150 Cost of Living Voucher is a crucial lifeline for struggling UK households, providing direct assistance with grocery costs amid rising inflation. With major supermarkets accepting the voucher and additional support available through the Household Support Fund, eligible individuals and families should apply as soon as possible.