Thousands of households can get £500 free energy or water bill grant from today
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THOUSANDS of households can apply for a free £500 grant towards their energy and water costs from TODAY. Families can claim the cash through the Household Support Fund (HSF), which is distributed by local councils to help with the cost of living. The HSF is a pot of money shared between councils in England who then decide how to distribute it among those living in their areas.
![[Households can apply for support with utility costs as the cost of living crisis pushes up bills]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/ce9gcw-woman-working-bills-916295373.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
That means what you are entitled is a postcode lottery, dependant on the terms set by your local authority. Councils in England are now distributing the latest round of funding, which amounts to £421million. Local authorities have until April 2025 to distribute the cash and each will set its own eligibility criteria.
While this means access varies, if you have a limited amount of money or savings, or are deemed to be vulnerable or on benefits, you will probably qualify for help. Worcestershire County Council is offering households grants of up to £500 to help with utility costs.
The funding can be used to pay for electricity, gas, water, oil or solid fuels. Households with children under the age of 18 (or 21 if in full-time education) can receive up to £500, while adult households will be eligible for up to £300. The scheme is open to Worcestershire residents with a household income of £31,000 or less a year, including non-means tested benefits.
