Up to £550 to be paid into bank accounts in July as households alerted to summer cash boost

Brits are set to receive a summer cash injection as special cost of living payments will be hitting bank accounts come July, with local councils distributing funds to those in dire need.

The Household Support Fund (HSF) is aimed at supporting the most financially vulnerable households. If you're feeling the pinch, it's time to act now as applications for support payments are open, and successful claims could see extra cash flowing into bank accounts during July.

Local authorities have been equipped with a hefty financial arsenal from the Government to assist families and individuals grappling with "financial hardship". Cash grants are up for grabs for those who need an extra hand with expenses such as food and energy bills.

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To find out what you could be entitled to, visit your local council's 'Household Support Fund' webpage. The amount of help on offer varies by location, with some councils dishing out up to £550 for eligible residents, reports BirminghamLive.

In Birmingham, if you're facing tough times and haven't had HSF help in the past year, you could snag a £200 grant. Be prepared to show that you're financially strapped, and in many cases, you'll need to be on some sort of means-tested benefit to qualify.

The council announced "(We) will be distributing grants of up to £200 to Birmingham households currently facing financial hardship. The funds are intended to help households with food costs and energy payments. We will will continue to accept applications until September 30, 2024 or until all funding has been exhausted, if sooner."

They added: "Be aware that if you are invited to apply, you may be expected to provide proof of address and proof of means-tested benefits, if you are in receipt of them."