The UK is in the midst of a cost of living crisis. Bills across the board continue to rise and millions of Brits are being hit hard as the cost of day to day items continues to increase.
Inflation is at a 40-year high, rising to a staggering 9%, a massive jump from 7% in March.
It’s a worrying time but there are options to help you as the government offers some support and discounts.
The government has set up various schemes to help you can range from far more than just the basic Universal Credit.
Here are all the free cast and discounts you could be entitled to.
Household Support Fund
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Many local councils across the country are giving out free money to help hard-hit households with bills and other essential spending.
It is part of the Housing Support Scheme, which was extended in March and Rishi Sunak has just added an additional £500 million on top.
You will need to check what you are entitled to through your local council, but for example, Surrey council were giving away £150 through the support fund earlier this year.
The Norfolk council is sending out funds to families that need it now, offering them £120.
Use the government search tool to find your local council and what they offer.
Discretionary housing payment
If you are claiming Housing Benefit or the Housing Element of Universal Credit then you could also be eligible for the discretionary housing payment.
This is determined on a case-by-case basis, so you will need to check with your local council if you are eligible.
It is designed to help people through difficult months and you can apply the government website.
If you need help with rent or housing costs, then this may be the best option for you.
Welfare assistance scheme
Once again, this is determined by individual councils depending on their own welfare schemes.
It is designed to help with a variety of costs from day-to-day living to buying essential items for the home.
The money comes in the form of a grant and the amount you will receive depends on location and individual circumstance.
If you would like to apply, head over to the government website and follow this link to find your local council.
Broadband deals
In the 21st century, internet has become an essential part of life and therefore broadband providers do provide help to pay for it.
It has been estimated that thousands of Brits could save up to £144 per year on their internet through select providers.
Some of the organisations that offer more affordable deals include Sky, Vodaphone, BT, Virgin and more.
Contact your provider today to find out how you can save.
Healthy start vouchers
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If you are looking to save money on food and drink, then this may be the best option for you.
The scheme is designed to help families pay for their food shop and is currently worth £4.25 per year adding up to £221 annually.
To see if you are eligible, head over to the NHS website and start filling out the form.
You will need to provide your name, address, national Insurance number, date of birth, baby’s name (if pregnant) and benefit award letter (if over 18 years old).
Energy bill grant
Another grant you may be eligible for is for for energy bills, curtsy of the providers.
For example, British Gas is allowing people to apply for a £750 grant to help pay their bills.
This amount can vary depending on individual circumstance and your specific provider.
British Gas isn’t alone as Shell Energy and Octopus Energy have set up similar schemes.
Contact your own provider now and find out more about what grants and schemes they offer to help you.
Council tax refund
You could be entitled to a council tax rebate and thousands of homes across the UK are already receiving money back.
This extra cash comes as part of the government’s £9.1billion to support the public.
You home has ben be within council tax bands A to D to be eligible and you can check your band via the government website here.
If you are already paying your council tax via direct debit, then the money will be deposited to your account automatically.
Council tax discount
![Many Brits are entitled to a council tax rebate](https://i2-prod.dailystar.co.uk/incoming/article27011272.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/0_Father-and-daughter-sitting-in-the-kitchen.jpg)
You could be eligible for a discount off your council tax bill, one of the most expensive bills going out each month.
It is entirely dependant on circumstance, aimed at those on low-incomes, people claiming benefits and those that are caring for others.
You can get 25-100% of your bill reduced, meaning you could be able to pay nothing.
Find your local council’s website and contact them to see if you are eligible.