With the cost of essentials continuing to rise, many families across the UK are under increasing financial pressure. To address this, the government has extended the Household Support Fund, offering much-needed help to vulnerable households. Payments of up to £300 are being made by local councils throughout June and July 2025, helping families manage daily expenses like food, energy, and rent.
The £300 Cost of Living Payments are part of a wider effort to ease the burden of inflation. Managed by local authorities but funded by the central government, this scheme provides flexibility to support those who need it most. Eligibility and payment methods vary by location, making it important for residents to check local council guidelines to see how they can benefit.
£300 Cost of Living Payments
The £300 Cost of Living Payments are being rolled out under the extended Household Support Fund, which has been running since 2021. Backed by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), the scheme has been a vital support for low-income households during periods of high inflation. With the fund now extended through March 2026, more people will continue to benefit.
Payments are being distributed by local councils and can differ by region. Some councils pay automatically to those who previously received support, while others require an application. The aim is to make sure residents don’t go without essential items like food, heating, or hygiene products during tough economic times.
Overview Table: £300 Cost of Living Payments
| Item | Details |
| Payment Amount | Up to £300 |
| Payment Timeline | June–July 2025 (food), December 2025 (energy) |
| Eligibility | Low-income households, benefit recipients, those in hardship |
| How to Claim | Automatically for some; application needed in other areas |
| Benefits Impact | No impact on existing benefits |
| Where to Check | Local council websites or gov.uk |
What is the Household Support Fund?
The Household Support Fund is a government-funded program created to support people struggling with the cost of living. First launched in 2021, it has helped thousands of families by covering essentials like food, heating, and clothing. Each local council administers its own version of the fund, giving them control over how money is distributed.
The current phase of the scheme covers payments through March 2026, with up to £300 available to qualifying households this summer. Councils have the flexibility to offer different payment amounts and support types depending on local needs, so experiences may vary.
Overview
The fund is designed to reach people who might not qualify for other benefits but are still in need. Key groups being helped include:
- Households on low income
- People receiving benefits such as Universal Credit, Housing Benefit, or Pension Credit
- Families with children eligible for free school meals or Child Benefit
- People with disabilities receiving support like PIP or DLA
- Residents facing financial hardship regardless of benefit status
While some councils offer automatic payments to residents already receiving support, others may require applications and supporting documents. The scheme is designed to be flexible so that help reaches those who need it most.
Eligibility Criteria
Since the £300 Cost of Living Payments are handled at the council level, exact eligibility rules differ depending on where you live. That said, most councils prioritize:
- Families on means-tested benefits
- Single parents and larger families with children
- People with disabilities
- Households struggling with rising living costs but not necessarily on benefits
In many areas, if you received a Household Support Fund payment before and your situation hasn’t changed, you may receive the new payment automatically. Otherwise, you may need to apply and submit evidence like bank statements or proof of income.
Support in Other Areas
Each council is taking a slightly different approach to distributing the fund, based on local needs and funding levels. Here are a few examples:
- Calderdale Council: Offers £85 for families with children or a disabled household member and £40 for single individuals. No need to be on benefits.
- Manchester City Council: Provides £130 to households on Council Tax Support and receiving disability-related benefits.
- Kent County Council: Gives out £90 in supermarket vouchers, especially to families referred by schools or health services.
To find out what support is available in your area, check your council’s official website. This will give you up-to-date information on eligibility, application deadlines, and the types of support offered.
Application Process and Required Documents
While some councils issue £300 Cost of Living Payments automatically, others require a simple application. If your council does need an application, here’s what you might need to provide:
- Photo ID such as a passport or driver’s license
- Proof of Universal Credit or Child Benefit
- Bank statements showing income or expenses
- Utility bills or rent receipts
- Letters from other government support programs, if relevant
Be sure to visit your council’s website for full instructions and deadlines to avoid missing out on this support.
Payment Dates and Timeline
The payment timeline varies slightly between councils, but the overall schedule is:
- June–July 2025: First round of payments, focused on food and daily expenses
- December 2025: Second phase, targeted at energy costs like heating
- March 2026: Final deadline for this round of Household Support Fund distribution
Payments are made either via direct bank transfer or as vouchers, depending on the local council’s system. If you’re unsure of the payment format in your area, check online or contact your council directly.
FAQs
Q1. Who is eligible for the £300 Household Support Fund payment?
Eligibility is set by each local council, but generally includes families receiving benefits, households on low income, and those facing financial hardship.
Q2. When will the £300 payment be made?
Most food-related payments will be made by mid-July 2025, while energy-related payments will be distributed in December 2025.
Q3. Do I need to apply?
Not in all areas. Some councils pay automatically if you previously qualified. Others may require an application with supporting documents.
Q4. Will it affect my benefits?
No. The £300 payment is separate from regular benefits and does not impact your Universal Credit or other entitlements.
Final Thought
The £300 Cost of Living Payments are a valuable form of relief during a time of ongoing financial pressure. Whether you’re a family needing help with groceries or an individual struggling with energy bills, this support can make a meaningful difference.
If you believe you qualify, don’t wait—check your local council’s website, confirm your eligibility, and apply if necessary. Even if you’re not on benefits, the support is designed to reach a wide range of households. Let others in your community know, and explore related updates or financial tips to stay ahead.
