£90 Cost of Living Payment Coming in March–April 2025 – Who’s Eligible and How to Apply

As the cost of living continues to strain UK households in 2025, the government has announced a £90 one-time Cost of Living Payment for March and April. Distributed through local councils, this financial relief is aimed at supporting families with rising food, rent, and utility bills. The payment falls under the Household Support Fund, which has been extended to help those most affected by economic pressures.

What is the £90 Cost of Living Payment?

This one-off payment of £90 per household is designed to help low-income residents facing financial difficulties. Whether you’re dealing with higher heating costs or struggling to buy basic groceries, this grant can provide essential support.

The payment is being delivered via local councils, who determine specific eligibility rules based on regional needs.

Who Is Eligible for the £90 Payment?

Eligibility requirements vary by local council, but most applicants must meet at least one of the following conditions:

• Receiving Universal Credit, Income Support, Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA), or Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)

• Receiving Pension Credit, Child Tax Credit, or Working Tax Credit

• Earning below a certain household income threshold

• Holding a disability or pensioner concession

• Experiencing financial hardship due to job loss, illness, or a family emergency

Each council has its own eligibility criteria, so it’s important to verify requirements on their official website.

How to Apply for the £90 Cost of Living Support

The application process is handled by your local council, and steps typically include:

1. Find Your Council: Use the GOV.UK Council Finder to locate your authority.

2. Check Eligibility Rules: Visit the council website to understand income and benefit requirements.

3. Collect Required Documents:

   • Proof of benefits (e.g. Universal Credit award letter)

   • Proof of income

   • ID and recent utility bill (if needed)

4. Apply Online or By Phone: Councils offer online forms, email support, and sometimes paper applications.

5. Wait for Processing: Most applications are reviewed within a few days, and payments are issued via bank transfer or vouchers.

Payment Timeline and Deadline

Important: Payments are issued on a first-come, first-served basis. Once a council’s allocated funds run out, no further payments will be processed.

MUST READ: Canada Housing Benefit: Claim Your $500 Payment – April 2025 Guide

Other Financial Help Available in Spring 2025

Even if you receive the £90 support, you may also be eligible for additional assistance:

Household Support Fund (HSF)

• Supermarket and fuel vouchers

• Emergency rent and utility support

• School meal assistance during holidays

Energy Bill Relief Schemes

• Winter Fuel Payment: Up to £300 for pensioners

• Warm Home Discount: £150 off electricity bills

• Cold Weather Payment: £25 for eligible households during freezing conditions

Community-Based Help

• Food banks and parcels

• Free school meal vouchers

• Community kitchens and hygiene kits

• Low-cost groceries and household essentials

Contact your Citizens Advice Bureau or local council for guidance.

Tips to Make Your Budget Go Further in 2025

• Use free budgeting apps to monitor spending

• Switch utility providers for better rates

• Shop at discount stores or use loyalty schemes

• Seek help from community kitchens for affordable meals

• Avoid high-interest loans; look for credit unions or local grants

Conclusion

The £90 Cost of Living Payment for March–April 2025 is a valuable form of relief for families grappling with daily expenses. Whether you’re on Universal Credit or facing an unexpected crisis, this support can help ease financial pressure.

Act fast to secure your payment. Visit your local council’s website, review the eligibility criteria, and submit your application as soon as possible.

Click here to know more.