UK Government Offers £90 Cost of Living Payment to Eligible Households for February Half-Term

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The UK government has announced a £90 cost of living payment for eligible households to help with rising expenses during the February half-term. This financial support aims to assist low-income households in covering essential expenses such as food, energy bills, and other necessities. The £90 payment is part of the Household Support Fund (HSF), which was first introduced in 2021 to help vulnerable households cope with rising living costs. Local councils receive funding from the HSF and distribute financial support based on the needs of their communities.

The cost of living crisis has significantly impacted UK households, with inflation driving up the prices of food, energy, and everyday essentials. Many families rely on free school meals during term time, and school holidays can add financial strain due to increased grocery costs. The £90 payment aims to provide short-term relief to eligible households, but families should also explore additional financial support options, such as supermarket vouchers and energy bill grants. Eligibility criteria vary by council, but in general, the following groups may qualify: households with children, pensioners, and individuals experiencing financial hardship.

Some councils may provide support to families facing financial difficulties even if they are not on benefits. This applies to individuals experiencing sudden income loss, increased energy costs, or other financial hardships. Certain councils offer payments to pensioners receiving Council Tax Support or those struggling with daily expenses. To apply for the £90 payment, households should check their local council's website or use the GOV.UK council finder to locate their council's official website. Depending on the council, households may need to provide documentation, such as proof of income or expenses, to support their application.

Once approved, payments are usually deposited directly into the household's bank account or provided as supermarket vouchers. Different councils distribute the Household Support Fund in various ways, and some may offer additional support, such as free school meal replacements or energy bill help. Economists suggest that while the £90 payment is helpful, it is only a short-term solution, and many families facing financial hardship need long-term support, such as increased benefit rates and wage growth. Organizations such as the Trussell Trust and Citizens Advice highlight that food bank demand has surged, and direct financial aid is critical for preventing food insecurity.

In addition to the £90 payment, households may be eligible for other forms of support, such as the £150 discount on electricity bills for eligible low-income households or hardship grants from energy providers like British Gas and EDF. Some councils provide supermarket vouchers instead of direct payments, which can be used at major retailers like Tesco, Aldi, and Asda. Households can check their eligibility for these programs and apply through their local council's website or by contacting their support services. By providing this financial support, the UK government aims to help eligible households navigate the challenges of the cost of living crisis and ensure they have access to essential necessities during the February half-term.