Thousands of UK households have just hours left to apply for a one-off £225 Cost of Living payment from the City of Doncaster Council.
This financial aid, funded by the Household Support Fund (HSF) through the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), is aimed at supporting those struggling with rising living costs.
To be eligible, applicants must receive certain benefits, including housing benefit, local council tax reduction, Universal Credit (with a housing element), or means-tested free school meals. Payments are available to working-age households, pensioners, and families with children.
Eligibility
To qualify for the one-off payment, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be a resident of Doncaster
- Receive at least one of the following benefits:
- Housing Benefit
- Local Council Tax Reduction
- Universal Credit (with a housing element)
- Means-tested free school meals
Payment Amounts
The amount you receive depends on your household situation:
| Household Type | Payment Amount |
|---|---|
| Households without children | £75 |
| Households with 1-2 dependent children | £150 |
| Households with 3+ dependent children | £225 |
| Pensioner households receiving Pension Credit | £50 |
| Pensioners not eligible for Pension Credit | £150 |
This targeted financial aid ensures that those with greater financial burdens receive higher support.
How to Apply
Eligible residents must submit their claims by 5 PM on Friday to receive the payment. Applications can be completed through the City of Doncaster Council’s website.
If you are unsure about your eligibility, check with the gov.uk Help for Households webpage, where the government has provided detailed information on financial assistance programs.
What is the Household Support Fund?
The Household Support Fund (HSF) is a DWP-funded program designed to provide extra financial help to vulnerable households. Local councils distribute the funds based on local needs.
The scheme has provided essential support since its launch, but March 2025 marks the final month of the fund, as the government has not announced further extensions. This makes it even more crucial for eligible households to apply before the deadline.
Why This Payment Matters
With inflation still impacting household expenses, many low-income families are struggling with rising food, rent, and energy costs.
This one-off £225 payment offers a much-needed financial boost, especially for larger families and pensioners facing economic difficulties.
If you qualify, make sure to apply before the 5 PM deadline on Friday to secure your payment.
