The DWP will pay out £225 to thousands in new UK benefits to ease the rising cost of living

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is set to issue living expenses payments worth £225 to thousands of households after Christmas, with applications now closed

Thousands are set to receive a smart cash boost of £225 after Christmas from the generous Household Support Fund from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

The Labor government scheme aims to help ease the financial pressure from the rising cost of living. Residents of the Tandridge district on low incomes can apply for a small grant from this fund. This council has contributed an extra £54,000 from its own resources to the public fund, to ensure that as many households as possible receive support.

Applications have already closed and are being reviewed by the council. Eligible households without children will receive a payment of £125, while households with children under 19 will receive £225, the local authority has said.

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The council said: “We accept applications from or on behalf of people who are in financial difficulty.”

These funds must be over 16 years of age, live in the Tandridge district and be in financial difficulty, struggling to cover the cost of essentials such as food, fuel or energy bills for themselves or their dependents, reports Birmingham live.

How do you make a claim?

You must submit evidence online such as bank statements and arrears letters. You can apply if you have previously received a Household Support Fund grant, but priority will be given to individuals or families who have not previously received a subsidy.

The message read: “We are no longer accepting applications. You must complete and submit an online application form.”

The council further advised local people, saying: “If you do not have access to the internet, please call the Council on 01883 772000.”

It then instructed: “You will need to visit the council offices in Oxted to provide all the documents listed below. You can also ask the Westway Center in Caterham and Citizens Advice to help you apply.”