On top of regular benefits, you may be able to get extra support to help with your household bills.
If you have a low income
£900 Cost of Living Payment
If you receive means-tested benefits or tax credits, you should have two payments left to receive:
- £300 by 19 November 2023
- £299 in Spring 2024
Water bill discount
If your total household income is below £21,749, you can get up to 50% off your water bill through Thames Water’s Water Help scheme.
Broadband or mobile phone discount
Check if you're eligible for a reduced-price ‘social tariff’ on your broadband or mobile phone. Find a list of social tariffs on the Ofcom website or give your current provider a call.
If you receive a pension
Cost of living payment
If you’re entitled to a Winter Fuel Payment for winter 2023 to 2024, you will get an extra £150 or £300 'cost of living' payment from the government. If eligible, you will receive a letter by the end of November explaining how much you will receive.
Find out more about Help for Households
£150 Warm Home Discount
If you get the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit, you can get a one-off discount on your electricity bill. If you think you’re eligible but haven’t received this discount, get in touch with the Warm Home Discount helpline.
Pension Credit
Check if you’re eligible for Pension Credit or call 0800 99 12 34. It can top up your weekly income to £201.05 if you're single or £306.85 for couples. It may also help you access other benefits like discounted or free NHS services.
Attendance Allowance
If you’re 66 or over, and sick, disabled or have caring needs, check if you’re eligible for Attendance Allowance worth £68.10 to £101.75 per week.
Carer’s Allowance
If you care for someone who receives certain benefits for at least 35 hours a week, you could receive £76.75 a week in carer’s allowance.
If you're disabled
£150 Disability Cost of Living Payment
If you receive certain disability benefits, you should have received this payment in June 2023.
- Find out more at help for households
- Report a missing Cost of Living Payment
If you cannot afford the essentials
Cost of Living Crisis Fund
If you cannot afford essentials such as food, energy bills and housing, you may be eligible for a payment of up to £500 from the Cost of Living Crisis Fund.
Refer yourself for money advice and support
If you need help with money and bills or if you're in debt, you can refer yourself for money advice and support.