The cost of living in the UK has been going up, and the Highland Council is stepping in to help. They’ve introduced a new £145 payment for certain households to ease the financial strain. Let’s break down who can get this payment and how it works.
Who Gets the £145 Payment?
To receive the £145 payment, households must meet specific criteria:
- They must already receive Council Tax Reduction or certain exemptions.
- They must be receiving a reduction on their council tax bills through means-tested Council Tax Reduction.
Eligible Groups
The payment will be provided to:
- People with severe mental impairment.
- Live-in carers who care for someone not their child, spouse, or partner.
- Children under 18.
- Care leavers.
Families who qualify for Free School Meals due to low income will get a separate £125 payment. If you think you qualify but haven’t received the payment, contact the service delivery team for assistance.
What Are Cost of Living Payments?
Cost of living payments help people who are receiving various government benefits. These payments are not taxable and do not affect other benefits. In the UK, eligible individuals can receive up to £900 in a tax year, split into three payments of £299, £300, and £301, paid on different dates throughout the year.
Additional Payments
- £150 Disability Payment: For those who qualify.
- Winter Fuel Payment: An extra £150 or £300 for those eligible for Winter Fuel Payment for 2023-2024.
What If You Don’t Get Your Payment?
If you believe you should have received a cost of living payment but haven’t, report the issue on the government’s official web portal to get help.
The Highland Council’s £145 extra cost of living payment aims to support those most affected by rising living costs. Make sure to check if you qualify and contact the service delivery team if you need assistance.
Who qualifies for the £145 cost of living payment?
The £145 payment is for households that receive Council Tax Reduction or specific exemptions. This includes people with severe mental impairment, live-in carers, children under 18, care leavers, and families eligible for Free School Meals due to low income.
How will I receive the £145 payment?
If you qualify, the payment will be made automatically to your account. There is no need to apply separately. If you think you should have received it but haven’t, contact the service delivery team.
Can I get this payment if I receive other benefits?
Yes, the £145 payment is separate from other benefits and will not affect them. It is intended to help with the increased cost of living and is not taxable.
What should I do if I haven’t received my payment?
If you believe you are eligible but have not received the payment, report the missing payment on the government’s official web portal. They will assist in resolving the issue.
Are there other cost of living payments available?
Yes, besides the £145 payment from Highland Council, eligible individuals can receive up to £900 in cost of living payments annually, split into three parts. There is also a £150 disability payment and an extra Winter Fuel Payment of £150 or £300 for those who qualify.
