Thousands of households can get up to £500 free cash – see if you’re eligible

Thousands of struggling households can claim up to £500 in cost of living help.

Camden Council is awarding the help as part of the Household Support Fund, which is a scheme that provides cash to local authorities which they can then issue directly to residents. Each council can set its own criteria for who is eligible for this help, and what type of support it will offer – for example, you could get a cash grant or vouchers for energy and water.

This means households face a postcode lottery when it comes to what help is available. Camden Council is offering cash grants to residents who cannot afford essentials such as food, energy bills or housing. You could be entitled to a Crisis Fund payment of up to £500, with the amount you're awarded depending on your circumstances and size of your household.

To apply, you must be over 18, or over 16 if you live independently, and have lived in Camden for at least six weeks. You'll also need to be in "urgent financial need" and will be asked to provide current bank statements. You can apply through the Money Advice Service.

It is possible to apply for two payments in a 12-month period, but you must wait at least two months to make the second application. Keep in mind that Camden Council is prioritising applications from residents who have not received a Cost of Living Crisis Fund payment in the last 12 months, and those who are in the highest need of support.

The Household Support Fund was due to end on September 30, 2024 but it has been extended for an additional six months, until March 31, 2025, after another £421million was allocated to the scheme. If you're not a Camden resident, it is worth checking the website of your local council to see what help it could potentially offer you.

For example, Solihull residents can also get free help worth £500 to pay off water and energy debts. You must live in Solihull, have a combined annual household income of under £31,000, have no household savings, except for if you're a pensioner, then you can have up to £5,000 in savings. You must have someone living in the household with a vulnerability and be in receipt of a qualifying benefit.

Blackpool Council is giving payments of up to £300 to households, paid directly to your energy or water supplier. This will appear as a credit on your bill or prepay meter. Households of one or two people can get a £200 payment, while households of three or more are able to claim £300.

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