As winter continues and prices remain high across the UK, thousands of families are still struggling to keep up with their everyday bills. To offer support where it’s needed most, the government has launched a £90 Cost of Living Payment, aimed at low-income households facing financial hardship. With bills, food, and energy costs climbing, this payment could offer temporary relief at a crucial time.
This support initiative is being rolled out locally, meaning that eligibility and deadlines may vary depending on your council. But for many, it’s a real chance to ease immediate financial strain—if you act quickly.
Why the £90 Payment Is Being Offered
Over the past year, households across the UK have seen steady increases in grocery bills, gas, electricity, and rent. While inflation has started to stabilise in some areas, it hasn’t yet brought significant relief to families on low or fixed incomes. That’s why the government, through local councils, is providing targeted cash payments—like this £90 support—as part of its broader cost of living response.
These payments are designed to go directly into the hands of people most affected, helping them cover essential needs such as food, heating, transport, or other necessities.
Who Can Qualify for the £90 Cost of Living Payment?
Eligibility is not the same everywhere, as each local authority sets its own rules. However, most councils are using a combination of national benefit data and local circumstances to decide who gets the payment.
You may qualify if:
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You receive means-tested benefits, such as:
- Universal Credit
- Pension Credit
- Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Income Support
- Working Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit
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You are in a low-income household, especially if you do not qualify for the above but are receiving housing or council tax support.
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You’ve recently experienced unexpected financial hardship, such as job loss, illness, or increased bills due to winter weather.
Because each council operates differently, the most accurate way to check is by visiting your local authority’s official website or contacting their welfare department.
How to Apply for the £90 Payment
Unlike national benefit payments, this cost of living support is distributed locally, and the application process is simple—but you need to act fast, especially if your area has set March deadlines.
Here’s what to do:
First, visit the GOV.UK website and use the local council finder tool. This will help you identify your relevant council and take you to the correct support page.
Once on your council’s site, locate the section that discusses cost of living support or Household Support Fund.
Read the eligibility information carefully to ensure you meet the criteria.
Gather necessary documentation. You may be asked to provide:
- Proof of income or benefits
- Recent utility bills
- Identification or proof of address
Submit your application either online, by email, or by post depending on your council’s process.
After submission, your council will review your details and issue payment directly, typically via bank transfer or voucher code.
What If You Miss the Deadline?
Some councils are still accepting applications through mid or late March, while others may close sooner due to funding limits. If you miss your council’s deadline:
- Check for alternate support schemes still available on their website.
- Ask if you can be added to a waiting list in case additional funding becomes available.
- Contact local charities, food banks, or community groups that may offer emergency financial aid.
What Other Help Is Available Beyond the £90 Payment?
While this one-time support is helpful, many families may still need further assistance. Thankfully, there are several other government-backed and council-level programs designed to help with daily living expenses.
Household Support Fund (HSF):
This is one of the biggest ongoing support schemes, offering help with food, clothing, bills, and more. Each council handles it differently, so the range of support varies.
Energy Support Schemes:
- Winter Fuel Payment: Between £200 and £300 for pensioners.
- Cold Weather Payment: £25 for each 7-day period of very cold weather.
- Warm Home Discount: A one-time £150 electricity bill rebate for qualifying low-income households.
Food and Basic Necessities:
Local councils and partner organisations often provide:
- Supermarket vouchers
- Food parcels through food banks
- Community kitchens offering hot meals
- Low-cost food co-operatives
Speak to your local council or visit their website to access these services. Charities like Citizens Advice and The Trussell Trust can also point you in the right direction.
How to Better Manage Your Finances During This Period
While government help is welcome, it may not always stretch far. Here are some ways to reduce costs and improve budgeting during this time:
- Track every expense to see where you can cut back.
- Use comparison sites for energy, broadband, and insurance deals.
- Switch to budget grocery stores or bulk-buy when discounts are available.
- Apply for council tax reduction if your income has recently dropped.
- Avoid taking on unnecessary credit that could build unmanageable debt.
The combination of direct support and smart money management can go a long way in helping you navigate rising costs this season.
FAQs
Who is eligible for the £90 Cost of Living Payment?
Eligibility varies by council, but generally includes people receiving means-tested benefits or those experiencing financial hardship.
Do I have to apply for the payment?
Yes, most councils require you to apply through their official website or support offices.
What documents will I need?
Common documents include proof of income, benefit statements, recent bills, and valid ID.
When will I receive the payment?
If approved, payments are typically issued within a few weeks, but this depends on your council’s processing times.
Can I receive this payment along with other government benefits?
Yes, the £90 payment is separate and will not affect your other benefits.
What happens if I miss the application deadline?
Check if your council has alternate support funds available or ask to be added to a waiting list.
Is this payment taxable?
No, the £90 Cost of Living Payment is a non-taxable, one-time grant and doesn’t count toward your income.
Where can I find more help?
Use the GOV.UK local council finder, or reach out to Citizens Advice, StepChange, or other trusted charities for guidance.
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Aanchal is a passionate writer with a keen interest in storytelling, content creation, and creative expression. She enjoys exploring diverse topics and crafting engaging narratives that captivate readers.
