UK £90 Cost of Living Payment: Who’s Eligible in June 2025 and How to Apply

UK £90 Cost of Living Payment: As inflation and rising utility costs continue to pressure UK households, the government has introduced targeted financial relief measures to help residents manage essential living expenses. Among these is the UK £90 Cost of Living Payment, a one-time grant offered in March and June 2025 through local councils.

This initiative provides crucial aid for low-income families struggling with everyday costs such as groceries, rent, and energy bills. If you’re unsure whether you qualify or how to apply, this guide breaks down all the important information.

UK £90 Cost of Living Payment

The UK £90 Cost of Living Payment is part of the renewed Household Support Fund (HSF) and is being issued by local authorities to help vulnerable residents meet the rising costs of living. This payment is not automatic for everyone—eligibility is determined at the local council level, which also oversees application procedures and payment methods.

This scheme complements other ongoing assistance programs like the Winter Fuel Payment, Cold Weather Payment, and Universal Credit support.

Overview Table: Quick Facts About the £90 Payment

Detail	Information
Payment Amount	£90 (one-time payment)
Distribution Period	March–June 2025
Administered By	Local councils via Household Support Fund
Eligibility	Based on local council criteria; often tied to benefits or hardship
Application Deadline	Varies by council; apply as early as possible
Payment Methods	Bank transfer, supermarket vouchers, or cash pickup
Application Required?	Yes, in most cases

Understanding the £90 Cost of Living Payment

The £90 grant is a short-term financial aid aimed at helping those most impacted by the ongoing cost of living crisis. Unlike national benefit schemes, this support is distributed through local councils and tailored to local needs. It is not repayable, and recipients can still qualify even if they’re already receiving other government support.

This payment is especially focused on covering essential costs such as:

• Heating and electricity bills
  
• Rent and housing costs
  
• Grocery and daily living expenses
  

Why the Government is Providing This Payment

Rising inflation, increased utility bills, and higher food prices have made it harder for households to stay afloat. By providing direct, one-time assistance, the government aims to:

• Help families avoid arrears on critical bills
  
• Prevent housing insecurity
  
• Support low-income residents in maintaining access to essential resources like food and heating
  

This payment is part of a wider government strategy to soften the financial blow many households are currently facing.

Who Qualifies for the £90 Cost of Living Payment?

Eligibility depends on where you live and the rules set by your local authority. However, the most commonly eligible groups include:

Eligible Recipients	Additional Notes
Universal Credit recipients	Must meet council-specific income limits
Pension Credit beneficiaries	Often prioritized due to age and financial need
Claimants of Income Support, ESA, or JSA	Must be actively receiving these benefits
Households on Child or Working Tax Credit	Subject to household income thresholds
Those facing temporary financial hardship	Could include job loss, illness, or emergency expenses

Households experiencing sudden or temporary hardship may also qualify, even if they don’t meet traditional benefit criteria.

How to Apply for the £90 Cost of Living Payment

To apply for the payment, you’ll need to go through your local council. Here’s a general guide to help you through the process:

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Identify Your Local Council
   Use the GOV.UK Council Finder to locate your local authority.
   
2. Review Eligibility Guidelines
   Visit your council’s website and look for the Household Support Fund section.
   
3. Gather Necessary Documentation
   You may be asked to submit:
   
   • Proof of benefits (e.g. Universal Credit statements)
     
   • Recent utility bills
     
   • ID and proof of residency
     
   • Income or savings information
     
4. Submit Your Application
   Depending on your council, this can be done:
   
   • Online
     
   • By phone
     
   • Through a paper form or in person
     
5. Await a Response
   Councils typically process applications within a few business days. You’ll be notified by email, letter, or phone.
   

Payment Schedule and Deadlines

The £90 Cost of Living Payment is being issued throughout June 2025, but since funding is limited, councils are reviewing applications on a first-come, first-served basis.

Event	Date
Applications Open	June
Deadline to Apply	Varies by council (usually by late April)
Payment Completion	Most payments issued by end of April 2025

To increase your chances of receiving support, apply as soon as you’re able and have all your documents ready.

Additional Financial Support Available in Spring 2025

In addition to the £90 payment, there are other government and community support options available:

Household Support Fund (HSF)

• Grocery vouchers
  
• Rent and utility assistance
  
• Holiday school meal vouchers
  

Energy Support Schemes

Scheme	Support Offered
Winter Fuel Payment	Up to £300 for heating costs (for pensioners)
Warm Home Discount	£150 rebate on electricity bills
Cold Weather Payment	£25 per week during severe cold spells

Food and Essentials

• Local food banks offer emergency groceries
  
• Free school meals or vouchers during holidays
  
• Charity-run programs offer cleaning supplies and hygiene kits
  
• Some communities offer free or low-cost meals at local kitchens
  

Smart Ways to Manage Household Expenses in 2025

Government aid can help, but it’s also important to take practical steps to manage your finances:

• Use budgeting apps like Emma or Money Dashboard to monitor your spending
  
• Switch utility providers for cheaper gas or electricity rates
  
• Use supermarket loyalty cards for discounts or cashback
  
• Shop second-hand or at charity shops for clothing and household items
  
• Avoid high-interest lenders—consider free debt advice if needed
  

FAQs

Final Thought

The UK £90 Cost of Living Payment in June 2025 is a timely and vital resource for families navigating rising expenses. If you think you qualify, don’t delay—check your council’s website, gather your documents, and apply early.