Are you due £94 cost of living payment in the next few days?

Low-income families struggling with soaring energy and food prices will receive £94 paid directly into their bank account within days.

The payment comes from the household support fund (HSF) – a pot of £842m created to help with the cost-of-living crisis.

Distributed by local councils, people will either receive a direct payment into their bank account or vouchers to help with the cost of food and energy.

What you receive will depend on how your local council has decided to distribute their money.

Who’s eligible for help from HSF?

Because it’s managed and distributed by local councils, eligibility varies but tends to be assessed on your financial ability to meet basic needs for food and energy.

You must be over 16 or over 18 to apply, depending on your council’s rules.

Some councils will require you to have applied for national benefits, such as universal credit, first and most will reject your application if you have savings.

How can I apply for help from HSF?

You need to apply for the fund directly through your local council. You can find your local council’s website at www.gov.uk.

You will need your national insurance number to apply, as well as details of the people you live with and earnings and expenses.

Councils may also ask you to produce evidence of why you need support.

If your application is rejected, you’ll be given seven days to appeal.