£200 cost of living payments entering bank accounts in December - who can get them

Cost of living payments worth hundreds of pounds are being paid into bank accounts by local councils. Authorities across the country are inviting applications for payments to help cover bills over winter.

But who can get them? The cash is from the Household Support Fund and is aimed at the worst-off households struggling the most with the cost of living. It's available through the winter up to the end of March.

Technically, anyone can apply in most areas but you will be expected to show you are struggling to pay for basic essentials like food and energy. Those on the lowest incomes and most in need of urgent support will be prioritised.

READ MORE: Nationwide tells customers it will pay £205 into bank accounts

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The Government says people don't need to be claiming benefits to get the payments, though those claiming benefits are most likely to need extra help. Applications need to be made directly to your local council and full details of how to do so will be on the Household Support Fund or cost of living section of their website.

Cash payments of different amounts are being made across the country. birmingham-city-council>Birmingham City Council is paying out £200 grants to those accepted for help. Some authorities may also offer alternative forms of support such as food vouchers.

The Government says: "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.

If you get benefits, they will not be affected if you get a payment from a Household Support Fund scheme."