Millions of pounds worth of  cost of living payments remain unclaimed from local councils, a new freedom of information (FOI) request has shown. These payments are part of the Government’s Household Support Fund, which was extended for another year to help families as costs remain high.

The Government added an additional £421 million to the fund for this round, which is distributed to councils in England. Councils decide how to allocate their portion of the fund, with some using it to offer grants for energy and water bills. However, figures obtained by lender Creditspring show that £65.2 million remains unclaimed, with less than a month left before applications close.

Over £20million of the total outstanding amount is available from just 10 councils.

Neil Kadagathur, CEO and co-founder of Creditspring said: “It’s been another punishing winter for household finances. Schemes such as the Household Support Fund can provide a lifeline for those struggling to afford rising bills, but with millions left unclaimed, it is clear that vulnerable people are missing out on much-needed support.”

Councils across the country offer varying types of support, so it’s important for Britons to check their local authority’s website or call their office to see what’s available.

For example, Blackpool Council offered residents up to £300 in energy and water support, while Manchester City Council offered up to £200 to eligible households.

To find out which council they fall under, people can use this postcode checker.

Household finances are set to face increased pressure in the coming months, with water bills rising by an average of £123 and the energy cap increasing by £111 from April. Many will also see council tax payments rise, making it even more important for people to claim the support they’re eligible for.

Creditspring also offers a Benefits Finder tool to help simplify the process. Since its launch in 2023, the tool has helped find £1.9billion in additional financial support. On average, the tool has identified £973 per month in additional financial support for individuals.

Mr. Kadagathur said the tool has “unlocked access to benefits” people “may not even realise they qualify for.”

Nearly 650,000 people have applied to the Household Support Fund for financial support since October 1, 2024. The deadline to claim support is currently March 31, 2025.