Thousands of struggling households to get a free £200 cost of living cash

THOUSANDS of benefit claimants are set to receive a free £200 payment next month to help with the rising cost of living.

The payment is part of the Household Support Fund, aimed at supporting vulnerable households struggling with essential expenses.

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The cash boost, distributed by Islington Council, is specifically for eligible carers who receive one of seven different different Department for Work and Pensions(DWP) benefits.

Unlike other financial support schemes, there is no need to apply.

Those who qualify will receive a letter from the council, which must be taken to a local Post Office to collect the payment.

To be eligible, individuals must be recognised as carers and receive one of the following DWP benefits: Carer's Allowance, Universal Credit (with carer element), Income Support, Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA), Income-related Employment and Support Allowance(ESA), Housing Benefit(with a carer premium) and State Pension or Pension Credit.

Additionally, individuals who have underlying entitlement to Carer's Allowance may also qualify.

This includes those of state pension age who have successfully claimed Carer's Allowance but do not receive it because their pension is too high.

Those receiving a carer's addition with Pension Credit or a carer's direct payment from Islington Council while also claiming a means-tested benefit could also be eligible.

The Household Support Fund, backed by the DWP, was created to help struggling households afford essentials like food, heating, and transport.

The latest round of funding, worth £2.2 million, has been allocated specifically to carers, acknowledging the financial strain they face.

An Islington Council spokesperson explained: "We understand that people with caring responsibilities can face extra challenges because of their caring duties.

"You might have more heating, water or transport costs or have given up paid work to care for someone."

To ease this burden, the council is prioritising carers receiving benefits, ensuring they get financial assistance without needing to go through a complicated application process.

Eligible individuals will receive a letter from Islington Council next month, instructing them to visit a local Post Office to collect their £200 cash payment.

However there are some key points to note, only one payment per household will be granted and the scheme will close on March 31, 2025, or earlier if funds run out.

Keep an eye out for a letter from Islington Council confirming your eligibility.

This letter will be essential for collecting the payment at the Post Office.

Unlike many governments support schemes, no application is required, making it simpler for eligible carers to get the help they need.

But with limited funds available, act fast to ensure you don't miss out.

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