As living costs remain high this spring, many UK households are facing growing pressure to keep up with everyday expenses. In response, the government has extended its financial aid to offer a £90 Cost of Living Payment for March and April 2025. This targeted support is designed to help vulnerable families afford basic needs like food, heating, and other household costs.
What Is the £90 Cost of Living Payment?
The £90 Cost of Living Payment is a one-off financial assistance provided through local councils to help low-income households manage rising inflation and high utility bills. The payment is part of the broader Household Support Fund, which has been reactivated to address economic hardships in early 2025.
This assistance is meant to reduce the burden on families that are already receiving means-tested benefits or struggling to make ends meet.
Why Is This Payment Being Offered?
With energy costs and food prices continuing to climb into March and April, the UK government is prioritizing help for families most at risk. By issuing one-time payments and vouchers through local councils, they aim to:
- Prevent households from falling behind on bills
- Help cover essential items like food, rent, and utilities
- Ensure that vulnerable residents don’t face housing or food insecurity
Who Is Eligible for the £90 Cost of Living Payment?
Eligibility for the payment depends on guidelines set by individual local councils, but common criteria include:
- Receiving Universal Credit, Income Support, Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA), or Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Being on Pension Credit, Child Tax Credit, or Working Tax Credit
- Having low household income, as defined by your local council
- Holding a valid disability or pensioner concession
Some councils may also approve the payment for households facing temporary hardship due to illness, job loss, or emergencies.
How to Apply for the £90 Payment in March–April 2025
If you believe you qualify, follow these steps to apply through your local authority:
-
Find Your Local Council
Use the GOV.UK Council Finder to identify your region’s authority. -
Review Eligibility Requirements
Visit your local council’s website to check specific eligibility rules and income thresholds. -
Gather Required Documents
Prepare documents such as benefit letters, proof of income, ID, and utility bills (if requested). -
Submit the Application
Apply online or by contacting your local council directly via email or phone. Some may also offer paper forms. -
Wait for Council Review
Applications are typically processed within a few business days, and approved payments are issued via bank transfer or voucher.
Payment Timeline and Deadlines
Most councils are expected to distribute the £90 payment during March and April 2025, though deadlines vary by location. Apply as soon as possible to avoid missing out, as funds are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
Local authorities may stop accepting applications once funding is exhausted.
Additional Support Alongside the £90 Payment
Several other support schemes are active in spring 2025 to help eligible households manage costs more effectively.
Household Support Fund (HSF)
Distributed by local councils, this fund provides:
- Supermarket and fuel vouchers
- Emergency housing or utility bill support
- School meal help during holidays
You can apply separately for this support even if you’ve already received the £90 payment.
Energy Bill Relief
If energy bills are straining your budget, the following schemes may offer relief:
- Winter Fuel Payment: For pensioners, up to £300 per winter
- Warm Home Discount: £150 rebate on electricity bills
- Cold Weather Payment: £25 during periods of severe cold (0°C or below for 7 days)
Food and Essential Items Support
Local charities, councils, and community groups also provide:
- Food bank parcels
- Free school meal vouchers
- Hygiene and household item packages
- Community meals and discounted groceries
Speak with your local council or Citizens Advice Bureau to locate these services.
Tips to Stretch Your Budget in 2025
Beyond government support, consider these strategies to reduce your monthly expenses:
- Use budgeting apps to track income and set spending limits
- Switch utility providers to lock in cheaper tariffs
- Shop during discounts or with store loyalty schemes
- Use community kitchens for low-cost meals
- Borrow responsibly, avoiding high-interest loans or payday lenders
Final Thoughts
The £90 Cost of Living Payment in March–April 2025 offers vital relief at a time when many UK families are stretched thin. Whether you are on Universal Credit or struggling due to a sudden financial crisis, this one-time assistance can help bridge the gap.
To take full advantage of the support, act now. Visit your local council’s website, check if you qualify, and apply before the deadline.
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Aanchal is a passionate writer with a keen interest in storytelling, content creation, and creative expression. She enjoys exploring diverse topics and crafting engaging narratives that captivate readers.