Thousands of households in Leeds are set to receive a welcome financial boost this week, with free Cost of Living payments arriving before Sunday.
Who is eligible for the payment?
The support is targeted at residents who were in receipt of Council Tax Support on 13 October 2025. This initiative is part of the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) Household Support Fund.
The payment amounts are not uniform. Claimants with dependent children will receive £120, while those without dependent children will be awarded £55. The local authority will determine the award based on the information held on the individual's Council Tax Support claim.
How and when will payments be made?
Leeds City Council has confirmed that these crucial payments will be distributed by the end of November 2025, which falls on Sunday, November 30. The council has stated it "will be in direct contact with anyone who is eligible".
Payments will be issued via a Post Office voucher, which recipients can then cash.
Background of the Household Support Fund
This financial aid stems from the central government's extension of the Household Support Fund. On 30 October 2024, the Chancellor of the Exchequer announced funding for this scheme.
As a result, Local Authorities in England will receive an additional £742 million to support those in need within their communities. This funding is available from 1 April 2025 until 31 March 2026.
Beyond these specific payments, Leeds City Council highlighted that additional funding is available for residents facing emergencies related to food, energy, or essential household items.
Residents in a crisis can contact the Local Welfare Support Scheme on 0113 376 0330. This emergency scheme is restricted to one application within any 12-month period.
The council is also channeling funds into the community, adding, "We are funding voluntary and community organisations across the district so they can support vulnerable people... with the costs of energy, food and essential household items." This includes extra funding to increase the supply of food to local food aid providers.
