HOUSEHOLDS have just days to get £200 free cash in January as an important deadline looms.
Hard-up families and individuals can get support via the government’s Household Support Fund (HSF).
The scheme has been extended multiple times with the latest round running between April 2025 and March 2026.
Each council in England has been allocated a share of the £742million fund and can distribute it to residents in need.
Eligibility criteria varies based on where you live but usually help is offered to those on a low income.
Struggling families in Portsmouth can still apply for support worth up to £200 to help with rising costs.
Families will receive £200, while a single person household will receive £150.
To be eligible for the support you must be claiming benefits such as carer’s allowance, a pensioner receiving disability, on a low income or a single parent claiming Universal Credit.
You also must be earning under a certain amount, for singles that is £935 and £1,350 for a couple.
However, you must submit your application by 12 noon on Thursday 29 January 2026 to be in with a chance of getting the support.
That gives households who are keen to apply just a few weeks to get their affairs in order.
To apply you can visit http://www.portsmouth.gov.uk.
What if I don’t live in Portsmouth?
The £742million Household Support Fund has been shared between all councils in England.
So, if you don’t live in this area but are struggling financially or are on benefits you will likely be eligible for help.
This is because the fund was originally set up to help those on low incomes or classed as vulnerable.
What type of help you can get will vary but it could range from a free cash payment to supermarket vouchers.
For example, Surrey residents who have a disability or long-term illness, or who are the parents or carers of a disabled child, can apply for £300 cash to help with grocery or energy bills.
Applications open every week on Monday at 9.30am and you can find the application form on the Surrey Coalition of Disabled People website.
Elsewhere, Islington Council in London is giving away one-off payments of £200.
