Summer cost of living payments July update as up to £550 to enter bank accounts

Special summer cost of living payments are set to enter bank accounts across the UK in July as households were put on alert for a cash boost. Money is being paid out to some of the worst off households by local councils through the Household Support Fund (HSF).

People who think they qualify for extra help can now apply for support payments and, if their applications are successful, they may enter bank accounts during July. Local authorities have been handed millions of pounds by the Government to help families and individuals in "financial hardship".

Many councils will be offering cash grants to those deemed to be in need of support paying for things like food and energy. People should check their local council's 'Household Support Fund' page online for details of what is available to them.

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The value of cash payments depends on where you live. Some local authorities are paying out as much as £550 to those deemed eligible.

In Birmingham, grants of £200 are available to those suffering hardship and who haven't received HSF support in the last 12 months. Applicants will likely have to prove they are struggling financially and in many cases will have to be claiming some form of means-tested benefit.

Birmingham City Council said: "(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."