Households on benefits including Universal Credit urged to apply for free £350 cash NOW
Hard-up households can get support via the Household Support Fund (HSF).
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The scheme has been extended multiple times with the latest round running between April 2025 and March 2026.
Each council in England has been allocated a share of the £742million fund and can distribute it to residents in need.
Eligibility criteria varies based on where you live but usually help is offered to those on benefits or a low income.
And now hard up households in Bromsgrove and Redditch can apply for support worth up to £350.
The support is being administrated by Citizens Advice Bromsgrove & on behalf of the councils.
How much you can get depends on a number of factors, including how many people you live with or if you have a family.
For example, single residents of the area could qualify for £200, while couples can get £250.
Those with families get the highest reward of £350.
The support will be given in the form of Post Office vouches which struggling households can use to spend on essentials such as warm clothing and other household items.
To quailfy, your total household income must not exceed £24,570 for single adult households with no children.
Meanwhile all other households must not earn over £31,000 per year.
To qualify you must show a proof of income.
This can be either a current payslip or Uiversal Credit Statement.
Household Support Fund explained
Sun Savers Editor Lana Clements explains what you need to know about the Household Support Fund.
If you're battling to afford energy and water bills, food or other essential items and services, the Household Support Fund can act as a vital lifeline.
The financial support is a little-known way for struggling families to get extra help with the cost of living.
Every council in England has been given a share of £421million cash by the government to distribute to local low income households.
Each local authority chooses how to pass on the support. Some offer vouchers whereas others give direct cash payments.
In many instances, the value of support is worth hundreds of pounds to individual families.
Just as the support varies between councils, so does the criteria for qualifying.
Many councils offer the help to households on selected benefits or they may base help on the level of household income.
The key is to get in touch with your local authority to see exactly what support is on offer.
And don't delay, the scheme has been extended until April 2025 but your council may dish out their share of the Household Support Fund before this date.
Once the cash is gone, you may find they cannot provide any extra help so it's crucial you apply as soon as possible.
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