Households in one part of the UK could receive a cost of living payment worth up to £200 in January, as support from the Household Support Fund continues into 2026.
The fund provided by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and distributed by local councils is due to end next year, meaning people who qualify are being urged to apply while support is still available.
The payment is designed to help households struggling with energy bills, water bills and essential living costs during the winter period.
Portsmouth households can get up to £200
In Portsmouth, eligible residents can currently receive:
- £150 for a single-person household
- £200 for a couple or family household
The payment can be used to help with:
- gas bills
- electricity bills
- water bills
Applications must be submitted by 12 noon on 26 February 2026.
The scheme is part of the Household Support Fund, but every council in England runs its own local version meaning:
- payment amounts may differ
- eligibility rules may vary
- support may be given as cash or vouchers
Who can apply in Portsmouth?
To qualify, residents must meet at least one of these criteria:
- pensioners receiving a disability benefit
- carers receiving Carer’s Allowance or the Carer’s Element of Universal Credit
- low-income working-age adults with Limited Capability for Work (LCW) who do not receive PIP
- single parents on Universal Credit with both a child element and housing costs element
(including those in temporary accommodation who pay their own bills)
Your household income must also be below:
- £935 per month for a single adult
- £1,350 per month for a couple
Portsmouth City Council said:
“This scheme helps low-income households with rising energy and water bills. Eligible residents will receive £150 for single households, or £200 for couples and families.”
Support varies across England
Because the Household Support Fund is managed locally, councils decide how money is distributed.
Examples of support in other areas include:
- Surrey County Council — supermarket vouchers up to £300
- Nottingham City Council — £100 monthly voucher scheme
- Doncaster Council — up to £300 for households with children
Some councils issue:
- cash payments
- fuel vouchers
- food or supermarket vouchers
Others restrict applications to one payment per household per year.
You do not need to be on benefits to apply
The Government confirms that:
- support is available to vulnerable households
- you do not need to be claiming benefits to qualify
- benefits will not be affected if you receive a payment
Councils may share funds via:
- local charities
- community support groups
- hardship schemes
Eligibility rules and application methods differ by location.
How to check if you qualify
Residents are advised to:
- Visit their local council website
- Search for Household Support Fund or Cost of Living Support
- Submit an application before deadlines close