DWP’s £500 benefit extended – find out how to get it on time!
The UK government has announced an increase to the Household Support Fund (HSF). The scheme was launched to help low-income families cope with rising living costs.
The Labour government has committed £742 million funds to sustain the scheme between April 1 2025 and March 31 2026. The extended program allows families who qualify to access up to £500 support money but specific councils determine actual amounts of assistance.
What is the Household Support Fund?
The Household Support Fund (HSF) is a government support scheme, which was launched in October 2021. It aims to help financially vulnerable families meet the cost of food items, energy bills and essential household items.
The scheme has been extended several times to provide relief to people in the ever-increasing inflation. Currently, it’s in place from 1 October 2024 to 31 March 2025, and applications for March 2025 are already open.
Who’s eligible for the scheme?
The fund is distributed by local councils, so eligibility criteria can vary from area to area. Generally, the following categories of people can take advantage of the scheme:
- Low-income families
- Pensioners
- People receiving Universal Credit or Pension Credit
The amount of help will depend on your local council. For example:
- Camden Council: Provides £500 per household.
- Islington Council: Provides £200 per household.
If you want to find out if you’re eligible for the scheme, visit your local council’s website.
What can the Household Support Fund be used for?
The fund can be used for the following essentials:
- Vouchers for food
- Warm clothing and winter essentials
- Payment of energy bills
- Home appliances (e.g. fridges, washing machines)
- Debt advice and financial support services
The Government also wants councils to use the fund for longer-term financial stability, such as:
- Providing energy-saving appliances to reduce energy bills.
- Insulating or renovating homes to reduce heating costs.
- Providing financial education and debt management services.
How to apply for the Household Support Fund?
- Full guidelines and eligibility criteria will be released by the DWP soon.
- Local councils will announce the application process in the next few weeks.
- Apply as soon as possible by visiting your council’s website when applications open.
Ms Kendall, from the DWP, said:
“Guidelines and funding allocations for the extension of the scheme will be shared with local authorities shortly.”
Conclusion
The Household Support Fund is a vital financial support for low-income families. With the Government’s £742 million extension, eligible families will continue to receive help with food, energy bills and essential household expenses.
Each local council sets its own policies and eligibility, so visit your council’s website as soon as possible to find out and apply on time.
FAQ’s
What is the Household Support Fund?
The Household Support Fund (HSF) is a Government-run scheme that provides low-income families with financial support for food, energy bills and household expenses.
Who is eligible for the scheme?
The eligibility criteria for the scheme are set by local councils. Generally, low-income families, pensioners and people receiving Universal Credit or Pension Credit can apply.
What can the Household Support Fund be used for?
This fund can be used for food items, energy bills, warm clothing, household appliances and financial support services.
When will the new extension of this scheme come into effect?
The new extension of this scheme will be in effect from 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2026. However, applications for the March 2025 payment are already open.