DWP handing out £500 cost of living payments this month

Residents in various parts of England could be eligible for cost of living payments of up to £500, based on where they live. The government is encouraging state pensioners who just missed out on a Winter Fuel Payment to apply for support from the local Household Support Fund instead.

Initially due to conclude in August, the fund has now been extended until March 2025 following the recent Budget announcement. Under this initiative, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) distributes funds to councils considering factors such as population size and poverty rates; it's then up to local authorities to decide how to allocate the money.

With the scheme moving into an additional year, the Express reports that eligibility criteria differ between councils: some consider Universal Credit status, while others are open to anyone facing financial hardship, reports Leeds Live. The government has stated: "Over a million pensioners will still receive the Winter Fuel Payment, and our drive to boost Pension Credit take up has already seen a 152% increase in claims. Many others will also benefit from the £150 Warm Home Discount to help with energy bills overwinter while our extension of the Household Support Fund will help with the cost of food, heating and bills."

Currently, the following councils have announced varying amounts of aid, which may change based on individual circumstances at the discretion of each local authority:.

- Blackpool offering £300

- Rutland providing £200

- Herefordshire - £500

- Sunderland - £220

- In Bracknell Forest - £315

- Rotherham - £250

- Brent - £500

- Wiltshire - £200

- Cambridgeshire - £110

- Middlesbrough - £70

Bristol City Council is yet to make an announcement on this.

To apply for this funding, you must contact your local council to understand the specific eligibility criteria in your area. It's important to note that local authorities might also be offering financial aid or food vouchers; therefore, it's essential to reach out to your local council to learn what support they have available.

The government's website provides guidance for those struggling with essential costs: "You may be able to get help with essential costs from your local council. This is sometimes known as 'the Household Support Fund'. This could help if you're struggling to afford things like: energy and water bills, food, essential items.

"Your council may also offer food vouchers to families during the school holidays. Funding is aimed at anyone who's vulnerable or cannot pay for essentials. You do not have to be getting benefits to get help from your local council."