State pensioners could receive £200 bonus cost of living payments next month
Bonus cost of living payments could be paid into the bank accounts of pensioners on low incomes. The money will be available as we head into February.
Low-income pensioners can apply to their local councils for payments which, in some cases, could be worth hundreds of pounds. The payments are also available for other struggling households.
Although anyone can apply for cost of living payments, they will usually have to show they are having difficulty paying for essentials, including food, water and energy. Cases are assessed by local councils, which decide who qualifies for cash, reports BirminghamLive.
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The money comes from the Government's Household Support Fund (HSF), which is designed to help those on low income and struggling to afford essentials. This includes the poorest pensioners, who are encouraged to come forward and seek help.
Money will be available throughout the year, although households are unlikely to be able to get more than one payment in a 12-month period. The Government said: "You may be able to get help with essential costs from your local council. This is sometimes known as 'the Household Support Fund'
"This could help if you’re struggling to afford things like: energy and water bills; food; essential items. Your council may also offer food vouchers to families during the school holidays.
"Funding is aimed at anyone who’s vulnerable or cannot pay for essentials. You do not have to be getting benefits to get help from your local council. If you get benefits, they will not be affected if you get a payment from a Household Support Fund scheme.
"Councils decide how to run their schemes. There may be differences in: eligibility criteria; if or how you need to apply; who money is given to."
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