New £200 cost of living payments landing in bank accounts this winter - key timeline

Applications will be judged on a case-by-case basis with households usually having to prove they are struggling to pay for essentials like food, gas and electricity

Special cost of living payments will be available for some of the poorest households this winter. Hundreds of pounds could be available for people struggling to pay their bills.

Cash will be available from local councils through the Household Support Fund (HSF). People will be able to apply for payments from their council over winter.

Applications will be judged on a case-by-case basis with households usually having to prove they are struggling to pay for essentials like food, gas and electricity. Local authorities pay out different amounts across the country, Birmingham Live reports.

The crisis fund will be launching again for winter 2024/25 after the new Labour Government confirmed it was being extended. Councils will be setting out details of their HSFs over the coming weeks if they haven't already.

Some may begin making payments during October, while others will wait until closer to Christmas. Residents are advised to monitor their local council's Household Support Fund and cost of living pages online for latest details on when and how to apply.

In order to be successful, most applicants will have to show they are suffering 'financial hardship' and struggling to pay their bills. They may also have to show they are receiving benefits though the Government says people don't necessarily have to be on benefits in order to get the payments.

The Government said: "You may be able to get help with essential costs from your local council. This is sometimes known as ‘the Household Support Fund’. This could help if you’re struggling to afford things like: energy and water bills; food; essential items.

"Your council may also offer food vouchers to families during the school holidays. Funding is aimed at anyone who’s vulnerable or cannot pay for essentials. You do not have to be getting benefits to get help from your local council."

In order to be successful, most applicants will have to show they are suffering 'financial hardship' and struggling to pay their bills. They may also have to show they are receiving benefits though the Government says people don't necessarily have to be on benefits in order to get the payments.

The Government said: "You may be able to get help with essential costs from your local council. This is sometimes known as ‘the Household Support Fund’. This could help if you’re struggling to afford things like: energy and water bills; food; essential items.

"Your council may also offer food vouchers to families during the school holidays. Funding is aimed at anyone who’s vulnerable or cannot pay for essentials. You do not have to be getting benefits to get help from your local council."