£90 Cost of Living Payment: With the rising cost of food, energy, and rent in 2025, UK households are under growing financial pressure. In response, the government has announced a £90 Cost of Living Payment, available during March and April 2025. This payment is part of the extended Household Support Fund, designed to assist low-income families and vulnerable individuals across the country.
This article explains everything you need to know about the £90 support—from who qualifies, how to apply, and when payments are expected. As the funds are limited and distributed by local councils, it’s important to act quickly to ensure you don’t miss out.
£90 Cost of Living Payment
The £90 Cost of Living Payment is a one-time financial relief measure to help households manage rising daily expenses. Funded through the Household Support Fund (HSF), the payment is not issued nationally by the DWP but instead handled by local councils, giving each authority flexibility to address specific community needs.
Whether it’s for food, gas bills, or rent, this payment offers essential help for struggling families. The amount is fixed at £90 per household, and applications are reviewed based on local criteria and available funding.
Overview Table: Key Details of the £90 Cost of Living Payment
| Category | Details |
| Payment Amount | £90 (one-time) |
| Eligibility | Low-income households; varies by council |
| Application Period | March–April 2025 |
| Application Deadline | Varies by local authority |
| Payment Method | Bank transfer or vouchers |
| Scheme Name | Household Support Fund |
| Administered By | Local councils |
| How to Apply | Online, by phone, or in-person (via council) |
What is the £90 Cost of Living Payment?
The £90 payment is part of a broader effort to ease the financial burden caused by inflation and high living costs. It’s aimed at helping those most affected by economic pressures, including pensioners, low-wage workers, single parents, and people with disabilities.
Rather than being distributed through the DWP, this support comes via local authorities, meaning eligibility rules and timelines may differ from one area to another. This approach allows councils to provide more targeted aid based on local needs.
Who Is Eligible for the £90 Payment?
Eligibility for the £90 Cost of Living Payment depends on your local council’s criteria, but generally includes households who meet one or more of the following:
- Receiving Universal Credit, Income Support, JSA, or ESA
- Receiving Pension Credit, Working Tax Credit, or Child Tax Credit
- Having a low household income, often below a set threshold
- Holding a disability or pensioner concession
- Experiencing financial hardship, such as due to illness, job loss, or emergency expenses
Because each council sets its own criteria, the best way to confirm your eligibility is to visit your local council’s official website or contact them directly.
How to Apply for the £90 Cost of Living Support
The application process is simple but must be completed through your local council. Here’s how to get started:
- Find Your Council: Use the GOV.UK Council Finder to locate your authority.
- Check the Rules: Visit your council’s website to review current eligibility criteria.
- Prepare Your Documents:
- Proof of benefits (e.g., Universal Credit award notice)
- Recent payslips or proof of income
- A valid ID and utility bill, if needed
- Proof of benefits (e.g., Universal Credit award notice)
- Submit Your Application:
- Most councils offer an online form
- Some allow applications via phone or email
- Others may accept paper forms at council offices
- Most councils offer an online form
- Wait for Approval:
- Applications are usually processed within a few days
- Payments are sent by bank transfer or issued as vouchers
- Applications are usually processed within a few days
Important: Some councils operate the fund on a first-come, first-served basis. Once the budget is used up, no further payments are made.
Payment Timeline and Deadline
The £90 payment is available between March and April 2025. Since every local authority manages its own application process, there is no single national deadline. However, most councils urge residents to apply as early as possible to ensure they receive the payment before funds run out.
The payment may be delivered in one of two ways:
- Direct bank deposit to your account
- Supermarket or utility vouchers, depending on council policy
Be sure to check your email or post for updates once you apply, and follow up with your council if you don’t hear back within a week.
Other Financial Help Available in Spring 2025
In addition to the £90 grant, several other support options are available this spring:
- Household Support Fund (HSF): Additional grants for emergencies
- Supermarket and fuel vouchers
- Emergency rent and utility assistance
- School meal support during holidays
- Energy-related schemes, including:
- Winter Fuel Payment (up to £300)
- Warm Home Discount (£150 off energy bills)
- Cold Weather Payment (£25 during freezing periods)
- Winter Fuel Payment (up to £300)
These can often be combined with the £90 payment. Check with your council or the Citizens Advice Bureau for guidance on applying for multiple forms of help.
Community-Based Help
If you’re struggling and not sure where to turn, local community groups may also offer:
- Food banks and food parcel distribution
- Free school meal vouchers
- Community kitchens providing low-cost or free meals
- Hygiene kits and household essentials
- Low-cost grocery schemes
These resources are often open to anyone in need, not just benefit claimants. Contact a local community centre, church group, or charity for more information.
Tips to Make Your Budget Go Further in 2025
Stretching your finances is more important than ever. Here are a few practical tips to help manage your budget:
- Use free budgeting apps to track daily spending
- Compare energy providers to find better rates
- Shop at discount stores or make use of supermarket loyalty schemes
- Visit community kitchens for affordable meals
- Avoid payday lenders—consider credit unions or local grant programs instead
Making small changes can lead to meaningful savings over time.
Conclusion
The £90 Cost of Living Payment offers timely relief for families across the UK as economic pressures continue into 2025. Whether you’re already on benefits or experiencing sudden hardship, this grant can help cover essential costs.
Don’t wait—visit your local council’s website, check the eligibility rules, and submit your application as soon as possible. With limited funds available, acting quickly is key. And remember, this support is just one part of a wider safety net—explore all your options to stay financially secure.
