Good news for millions of people in the UK – the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is offering a £120 financial relief for eligible claimants receiving certain benefits. This support is aimed at helping low-income households cope with rising living costs, especially as inflation and energy prices remain a concern.
Let’s break down who can get this relief, what the conditions are, and when you can expect the money.
What is this £120 Financial Relief?
The £120 support is being provided by local councils across the UK using money from the Household Support Fund (HSF). This fund is provided by the UK government and is meant to help families and individuals with essential costs like food, energy bills, and household items.
Every local council decides how to distribute this support based on the needs of people in their area. Some councils are offering direct payments of up to £120, while others may provide food vouchers, energy credits, or essential household goods instead.
Who is Eligible for the £120 Relief?
To be eligible, you must be receiving one of the six key DWP benefits. These include:
- Universal Credit
- Pension Credit
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Income Support
- Housing Benefit
However, eligibility might slightly differ depending on your local council’s criteria. For example, some councils require applicants to show that they are struggling with basic needs like food or heating bills.
Also, you don’t need to apply in every area. In some locations, payments are made automatically to those who qualify. But in other areas, residents may need to fill out a short application form.
How Will the Money Be Paid?
The payment of £120 (or its equivalent in vouchers or support items) will be issued by your local council, not directly from the DWP.
Here’s how it usually works:
- If your council is giving cash payments, the money may be transferred directly to your bank account.
- If your council is giving vouchers, you’ll get them via post, email, or text, depending on their system.
- If your council is offering non-cash support (like appliances, food parcels, or gas top-ups), a delivery or collection option will be arranged.
To find out the method in your area, visit your local council’s official website and search for their Household Support Fund page.
When Will You Get the £120 Support?
The timing of payments depends on your local council. Most councils have already started giving out support for this financial year (which began in April 2025). However, the Household Support Fund ends in September 2025, so make sure to check and apply (if required) before then.
If you already received help in a previous round of the HSF, you may still be eligible again, but it will depend on your council’s rules.
Why This Help Matters Right Now
Many families across the UK are feeling the pressure of high energy bills, increased grocery costs, and ongoing rent hikes. This £120 relief, although not a huge amount, can still ease some of the burden for those most in need.
The UK government has continued the Household Support Fund for another term in 2025 to ensure that vulnerable people get emergency support, especially during the warmer months when energy grants may not be available.
Final Tip: Check Your Local Council Website
To know the exact eligibility and method of receiving this support, you should:
- Search “Household Support Fund” + your council name on Google
- Visit your council’s official site
- Look for application deadlines, payment types, and contact info
Even if you’re not sure you qualify, it’s worth checking—some councils may support households slightly above benefit thresholds or in temporary financial hardship.