As living expenses continue to rise across the UK, many households are struggling to keep pace with the growing costs of essentials like food, heating, and rent. To ease this financial pressure, the UK government has announced a new £90 Cost of Living Payment for eligible households between March and April 2025. This one-time support aims to help vulnerable families cope with inflation and increasing utility bills.
Here’s everything you need to know about this new payment, who qualifies for it, and how to apply.
What is the £90 Cost of Living Payment?
The £90 Cost of Living Payment is a financial relief measure introduced by the UK government as part of its ongoing efforts to support low-income households. The payment is being distributed through local councils and falls under the extended Household Support Fund (HSF), which was specifically designed to help people manage rising living costs.
This one-off financial aid targets struggling families and individuals who receive certain benefits or have a low income. The goal is to provide extra cash to help cover essential household expenses like food, energy bills, and other day-to-day costs.
Why Has the Government Introduced This Payment?
With inflation remaining high and energy prices still burdening many UK homes, this payment is aimed at preventing financially vulnerable people from falling deeper into hardship. The government hopes that this assistance will:
- Help families cover urgent needs like heating, rent, and groceries.
- Prevent households from falling behind on their bills.
- Reduce the risk of homelessness or food insecurity.
- Offer relief during temporary financial crises like job loss or illness.
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Who Can Claim the £90 Cost of Living Payment?
Eligibility for the payment depends mainly on local council rules, but generally, the following groups are expected to qualify:
- Universal Credit recipients
- Those receiving Income Support, Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA), or Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Pension Credit beneficiaries
- People on Working Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit
- Low-income households, as per council guidelines
- Residents with a valid disability or pensioner concession
- Households facing financial difficulties due to emergencies, illness, or unexpected job losses
It is important to note that eligibility requirements may vary slightly depending on your local authority. Therefore, it is crucial to check your council’s specific criteria before applying.
How to Apply for the £90 Cost of Living Payment?
If you believe you meet the eligibility conditions, here’s how you can apply for the £90 payment in March–April 2025:
1. Locate Your Local Council
Use the official GOV.UK website to find your local council’s contact details.
2. Check Eligibility Rules
Visit your local council’s website to review their specific eligibility criteria and the documents you’ll need.
3. Gather Necessary Documents
Prepare essential documents like proof of benefits, ID, recent utility bills, and any other proof of income that your council may require.
4. Submit Your Application
Most councils allow you to apply online through their portals. Alternatively, you may contact them via phone, email, or by filling out a paper form if available.
5. Wait for Processing
Once submitted, your application will be reviewed. If approved, the payment will typically be transferred directly to your bank account or provided as a voucher, depending on your council’s process.
Application Deadline and Payment Schedule
The £90 payment is expected to be distributed throughout March and April 2025. However, deadlines for applying may vary between councils. Since funds are limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis, applying early increases your chances of receiving the payment.
Local councils may stop accepting applications once their allocated funds run out, so do not delay if you believe you’re eligible.
Additional Financial Support Available in 2025
Apart from the £90 Cost of Living Payment, several other schemes are currently active to help ease financial stress on UK residents.
Household Support Fund (HSF)
This broader fund, managed by local councils, provides additional forms of help, including:
- Supermarket or fuel vouchers
- Support with housing or utility bills
- Food vouchers for school holidays
Eligible households can apply for these benefits even if they’ve already received the £90 payment.
Energy Bill Assistance
Several programs exist to help with rising energy costs:
- Winter Fuel Payment: Up to £300 for pensioners
- Warm Home Discount: £150 off electricity bills
- Cold Weather Payment: £25 when temperatures stay below 0°C for 7 consecutive days
Food & Essentials Support
Community organizations, charities, and councils are also providing:
- Food parcels from local food banks
- Free school meal vouchers for children
- Hygiene and household essentials packs
- Discounted groceries or free community meals
For more information on these resources, contact your local council or the Citizens Advice Bureau.
Smart Money Tips to Manage 2025 Expenses
Besides government help, here are a few smart strategies to stretch your budget further this year:
- Use budgeting tools or apps to monitor expenses
- Switch utility providers for cheaper rates
- Take advantage of loyalty schemes and discount offers
- Access community kitchens or food-sharing services
- Avoid high-interest loans and borrow responsibly
Final Thoughts
The £90 Cost of Living Payment for March–April 2025 is a timely initiative aimed at easing the burden on struggling UK households. Whether you are on benefits like Universal Credit or facing temporary hardship, this support could provide much-needed relief during difficult times.
If you think you qualify, don’t wait — check your local council’s website, gather your documents, and apply as soon as possible before funds run out.
With multiple support schemes available alongside this payment, eligible families have several options to navigate rising living costs and protect their financial well-being.