The government has allocated billions to assist Ukrainians: how to receive financial support.

This program has been extended several times, with the last round running from April 2025 to March 2026.

All areas of England have received a share of the £742 million fund and can distribute it among residents in need of assistance.Eligibility criteria vary depending on the area, but generally, support is provided to those receiving social benefits or having a low income.Residents of Portsmouth are encouraged to apply for cash grants of up to £1,000 before the application deadline closes.The program aimed at helping those experiencing severe financial instability was set to close on September 1, but will now close this Thursday, August 21, due to the high volume of applications.The exact amount you receive depends on your family size, with a maximum of £800 for six or more people.Meanwhile, one person receives £350, two people £420, three £500, four £600, and five £700.Households with the highest level of need may receive an additional £200.This will increase the maximum payment to £1,000.Cash can be used for purchasing food, as well as essentials like a stove or fridge.To be eligible, households must not have access to any type of funds, including savings. People receiving Universal Credit and other benefits can apply, but it is not mandatory. They also must not have received support from this program in the past six months.To apply, visit the website portsmouth.gov.uk.Other local councils have also received a share of the household support fund, so if you are struggling financially or receiving social benefits, you are likely to be eligible for assistance too.The fund was created to help those with low income or deemed vulnerable.Mandatory residents of Bromsgrove and Redditch can apply for support of up to £350.You also have the option to apply for a one-off payment of £140 provided by Cornwall Council to families experiencing serious financial difficulties.Sun Savers Editor Lana Clements explains what you need to know about the Household Support Fund.If you are struggling with paying for energy, water, food, or other essentials and services, the Household Support Fund can be a crucial lifeline. Financial support is a little-known way for families in poverty to gain extra help with covering living costs. Every council in England has received a share of the £421 million fund from the government to distribute among local low-income households. Each local authority decides how to distribute support. Some offer vouchers, while others provide direct cash payments. In many instances, the value of support can amount to hundreds of pounds for individual families. Just as the support varies between councils, so too do the criteria for qualification. It is essential to connect with your local authority to find out what support is available. And do not delay; the program has been extended to April 2025, but your council may distribute its share of household support funds before this date. Once the funds run out, you may find they cannot provide any additional support, so it is important to apply as soon as possible.