The UK government has introduced a new £90 support payment aimed at helping low-income households cope with the rising cost of living. This financial aid is part of the Household Support Fund (HSF), which provides local councils with funding to assist struggling families.
If you’re wondering whether you qualify for this payment and how to claim it, here’s everything you need to know.
What Is the £90 Support Payment?
The £90 payment is part of a wider government initiative to provide targeted support to vulnerable households. It is not a nationwide automatic payment like previous Cost of Living Payments but is instead distributed by local councils. This means eligibility and the application process may vary depending on where you live.
The funding comes from the Household Support Fund, which was initially introduced in 2021 and has been extended several times to support people facing financial hardship. The latest round of funding is available from April 2025 to March 2026.
Who Is Eligible for the £90 Payment?
Since the Household Support Fund is managed at the local council level, the criteria for receiving the £90 payment can differ from one area to another. However, in most cases, you may qualify if you fall into one of the following groups:
- Low-income households – Those earning below a specific threshold set by their council.
- Benefit recipients – Those receiving Universal Credit, Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA), Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), Income Support, or Pension Credit.
- Families with children – Many councils prioritize support for families with dependent children.
- Pensioners on low incomes – Some councils provide additional financial assistance for pensioners struggling with daily expenses.
To check the exact eligibility criteria in your area, visit your local council’s website via the government’s official council finder tool: gov.uk/find-local-council.
How to Apply for the £90 Support Payment
Since local councils are responsible for distributing the funds, the process for applying can vary. Generally, to apply:
- Find Your Local Council – Use the government website to locate your local authority: gov.uk/find-local-council.
- Check the Eligibility Criteria – Each council provides specific details on who can apply and how the funds will be distributed.
- Complete an Application Form – Some councils may require you to fill out an online application, while others might contact eligible residents directly.
- Provide Supporting Documents – You may need to submit proof of income, benefit status, or other relevant financial information.
- Wait for Confirmation – Councils will process applications and notify applicants if they have been approved.
It’s important to act quickly because some councils have deadlines for applications or may distribute funds on a first-come, first-served basis.
Other Financial Support Available
The Household Support Fund covers more than just the £90 payment. Local councils may also offer additional forms of assistance, such as:
- Supermarket Vouchers – Help with food costs for eligible families.
- Energy Bill Support – Grants or vouchers to assist with rising utility costs.
- Cash Grants – Direct financial support for essential expenses.
You can check your local council’s website to see what additional support is available in your area.
Why Is This Support Being Provided?
The UK government has extended the Household Support Fund as part of its broader efforts to tackle the cost-of-living crisis. With inflation and energy prices continuing to affect households, the fund provides critical financial relief to those in need.
According to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), over £2 billion has been allocated to the fund since its launch. The latest extension, running from April 2025 to March 2026, aims to ensure that vulnerable families continue to receive the help they need.
Beware of Scams
With any government support scheme, there is always a risk of scammers attempting to take advantage of the situation. The DWP has warned the public to be cautious of fraudulent messages, emails, or phone calls claiming to offer government payments.
- The government will never ask you to provide bank details or make payments to claim support.
- Official updates and applications can only be accessed through your local council’s website or the government’s official website: gov.uk.
If you receive a suspicious message, you can report it to Action Fraud at actionfraud.police.uk.
Conclusion
The £90 support payment is a welcome relief for many households struggling with rising costs. However, because it is administered by local councils, eligibility and application processes vary, making it essential to check with your local authority as soon as possible.
If you think you might be eligible, visit gov.uk/find-local-council to find out how to apply. Don’t miss out on this financial support that could help ease the burden of the cost-of-living crisis.
Pankaj Kumar is a journalist at Chandigarh X, covering admit cards, recruitment, and government schemes. His articles provide readers with detailed insights into application processes, eligibility, and exam updates.
Outside of work, Pankaj enjoys traveling, fitness, and cricket, often participating in local matches on weekends.