Thousands of households have just days left to apply for free cash worth up to £320 – can you get it?
Hard-up households can get support via the government's 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 struggling households in North Northamptonshire can apply for supermarket vouchers worth up to £320.
The scheme was closed due to high demand but has since reopened.
Households have until August 25 to apply, giving struggling families in the area just two weeks to submit an application.
How much you can receive depends on a number of factors including how many people you live with.
For example, a single person can apply for a £150 voucher and a two-person household will get £260.
Meanwhile a home with three people or more will get £320.
Cllr Greg Wilcox, the council's executive member for communities, said: "This fund is designed to reach those who need a helping hand, and it is great news that we are now in a position to reopen for applications."
Families can get FREE washing machines, fridges and kids' beds or £200 payments this summer – and you can apply now
"And I would encourage anyone who is struggling and thinks they might be eligible to apply as soon as possible."
Applications are expected to take two months to process and will be dealt with in the date order in which they are received.
To access HSF funding applicants need to fill in an online form and upload payslips and proof of identity, bank statements, ideally using a computer.
You can find out more by visiting, northnorthants.gov.uk/support-offer/household-support-fund/wider-essential-support.
What if I don't live in North Northamptonshire?
The £742million Household Support Fund has been shared between all councils in England.
So, if you don't live in this area but are struggling financially or are on benefits you will likely be eligible for help.
This is because the fund was originally set up to help those on low incomes or classed as vulnerable.
What type of help you can get will vary but it could range from a free cash payment to supermarket vouchers.
For example, Wealden District Council has opened applications for residents - and free cash worth £200 is up for grabs.
To qualify, you need to be aged 18 or older, living in the Wealden District Council Local Authority area and be receiving one of four benefits:
Universal Credit (that also includes the Housing Costs element)
Housing Benefit
Council Tax Reduction
an SMI (severe mental impairment) exemption and would therefore otherwise be entitled to a Council Tax Reduction
Meanwhile, Bromely Council is offering struggling households £150 payments in the form of virtual energy cards, council tax credit or supermarket vouchers.
You have to be over 16 and living in a Bromley postcode to apply. You also will be required to prove the following.
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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