The UK Government has published details on various support options available to help with the cost of living. Here’s a summary of the key programs:
1. Cost of Living Payments 💸
Cost of Living Payment (£650): For those receiving benefits like Universal Credit, Job Seekers Allowance, Employment and Support Allowance, Income Support, Pension Credit, and Child Tax Credit.
Disability Cost of Living Payment (£150): For those receiving disability benefits such as Attendance Allowance, Constant Attendance Allowance, Disability Living Allowance (DLA), Personal Independence Payment (PIP), or War Pension Mobility Supplement.
Pensioner Cost of Living Payment (£300): For those entitled to a Winter Fuel Payment.
2. Household Support Fund 🏠
A £1.5 billion fund to help vulnerable individuals with essential expenses like energy bills. Check with your Local Authority to see if you qualify. Local Authorities may also provide food vouchers during school holidays.
3. Council Tax Rebate 💷
Residents in Bands A-D in England may receive a £150 rebate on their Council Tax bill, provided the bill is paid by direct debit.
4. Budgeting Loans 📊
Available for those on certain benefits for at least 6 months. These loans can help with various expenses such as household items, rent in advance, moving costs, and more. Repayments are taken automatically from your benefits.
5. Cheaper Phone and Broadband 📞🌐
Social tariffs offer cheaper broadband and phone packages for those on Universal Credit, Pension Credit, and other benefits. Check with Ofcom for more details.
6. Assistance with Rent Payments 🏠
Help may be available for rent payments depending on your housing situation. Use the UK Government’s Benefits Calculator to find out more.
7. Assistance with Water Bills 💧
Many water companies offer hardship schemes or fund independent charitable trusts to help with water bills. Check with your water provider for more information.
8. Assistance with Travel Costs 🚌
The Government has extended the £2 bus fare cap on most routes in England outside London until the end of December 2024. Additionally, those on Universal Credit may qualify for a Jobcentre Plus Travel Discount Card.
9. Warm Home Discount Scheme 🔥
Eligible individuals can get £150 off their electricity bill for winter 2023 to 2024. The discount is usually applied automatically.
10. Winter Fuel Payment ❄️
Those born before 25 September 1957 can receive between £250 and £600 to help with heating bills. This includes a ‘Pensioner Cost of Living Payment’.
11. Cold Weather Payment ☃️
You may receive £25 for each 7-day period of very cold weather between 1 November 2023 and 31 March 2024 if you are on certain benefits.
12. Energy Bills Support Scheme Discount 💡
You may be eligible for up to £400 in discount support for your energy bills for 2023/2024 winter.
More information can be found on our website: Help for households | Dukes Debt Online
Make sure you're claiming all eligible benefitsEnsure you are claiming all benefits you are entitled to, including Universal Credit, Housing Benefit, Discretionary Housing Payment, and Support for Mortgage Interest.
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For more detailed information on each of these support options, please visit the UK Government website.