The Household Support Fund is government money given to local councils to help people struggling with the cost of living. Are you renting and finding it hard
On this page
The Household Support Fund is government money given to local councils to help people struggling with the cost of living. Are you renting and finding it hard to cover the basics: rent, food, energy bills? Your local council may be able to help through this fund. Here is how it works.
What is the Household Support Fund?
The Household Support Fund (HSF) is money from central government to local councils in England, for people in financial difficulty. Each council decides how to use its share. The rules are not the same everywhere.
The fund has been running since October 2021 and has been extended several times. Councils can use it to provide:
- Cash payments or vouchers
- Help with food costs
- Help with energy costs (fuel top-ups, white goods, energy-efficient items)
- Help with rent or housing costs in some areas
- Help with other essential household items
Who can apply?
Each council sets its own rules on who qualifies. Broadly, the fund is aimed at households that are struggling and do not qualify for other targeted support. Common factors include:
- Being on a low income
- Claiming benefits (though not always required)
- Facing a sudden money crisis or cost-of-living hardship
As a private renter you may qualify, especially if you are on a low income and struggling with rent, heating, or food.
How do I find out what my council offers?
Search for your local council's Household Support Fund page. You can find your council at gov.uk by entering your postcode. Each council's page should explain:
- What kinds of help are available
- Who can apply
- How to apply
- Any deadlines (the fund has a finite budget and can run out)
If you are not sure where to start, Citizens Advice or a local foodbank may be able to signpost you to the right place.
Can the HSF help with rent arrears?
Some councils let HSF money go on rent support or stopping homelessness. Others keep it to food and energy. If you are in rent arrears, ask your council about the HSF and about a Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP). A DHP is a more targeted form of rent help for people on housing-related benefits.
What if I am refused?
If you are refused, ask the council why, and whether there is an appeal or review. Many councils have a small budget and put the most serious cases first. Try again if your situation gets worse, or ask Citizens Advice to help you find other support.
When should I contact Support for Tenants?
We help tenants with housing disrepair claims. Your money troubles may partly come from your landlord failing to keep your home in repair: higher energy bills from poor insulation, or health costs from damp and mould. A disrepair claim may bring compensation.
Call us on 0800 030 4669. No upfront cost. You only pay if you win, and the fee comes out of the compensation, not your pocket. If you don't win, you pay nothing.
Sources
We review every guide at least twice a year and update it when the law changes. If you spot something out of date or wrong, email help@supportfortenants.co.uk.
Reviewed against current housing law for England and Wales as at 15 June 2026. Checked by our SRA-regulated panel solicitors. This is general information, not legal advice for your specific case. Any compensation figures or ranges shown are illustrative only, not a promise; every case is different.
Related guides
Can I withhold rent if my landlord won't do repairs?
Thinking of stopping your rent until repairs are done? It is risky and can get you evicted for arrears. Here is the safer way to force repairs, and your rights.
Read
Help with rent arrears and housing benefit
Behind on rent, or struggling with Universal Credit housing costs? You have options, and free help. Here is what to do first and who to call before things get worse.
Read
Will a disrepair payout affect my Universal Credit or benefits?
Worried compensation could cut your Universal Credit? Savings under £6,000 are ignored, and money for a health problem is protected for 12 months. Here is how it works.
Read
Still stuck?
Call us free or start a claim online. We'll tell you honestly whether you have a case worth pursuing.