DWP benefit and money changes in November - including £200 handed out by councils

As the start of winter will be marked by higher energy bills for most, many may be interested in receiving as much help as they can, fortunately, you could get as much as £200 in cash depending on where you live.

A series of financial changes are on the horizon that could impact households across the UK. Some alterations will directly affect pensioners hoping for additional financial support during the winter months, while other changes could potentially influence a broader range of Brits.

With the onset of winter bringing higher energy bills for most, many may be keen to receive as much assistance as possible. Luckily, depending on where you reside, you could pocket as much as £200 in cash.

Read on below for a comprehensive breakdown of the significant money changes expected in November 2024.

Household Support Fund

The Household Support Fund, worth up to £200, could provide extra financial support to low-income families throughout November via cash distributed by their local council. Each council has the discretion to decide how they wish to allocate their share of the Household Support Fund, with some opting for outright cash payments and others providing support through vouchers or other means.

For instance, Birmingham's council is offering a £200 Household Support Fund to residents, with cash grants being directly deposited into their bank accounts. Similarly, Nottinghamshire Council is also offering one-off payments of £200 to tens of thousands of households.

To check if you're eligible for help, contact your local council, which can be found here.

Autumn Budget

Chancellor Rachel Reeves will take centre stage at the end of October with her inaugural Autumn Budget, amid widespread concern over a colossal £22 billion "black hole" in Britain's public purse. As government officials grapple with this mammoth fiscal deficit, warnings of imminent "hard but fair" economic choices have set the nation on edge, suggesting that Brits from all walks of life could feel the pinch.

The fine details remain shrouded in suspense, but policy shifts could be fast-tracked to November this year. Quizzed about potential tax tweaks, Sir Keir Starmer assured: "We are going to keep our manifesto pledges."

He further stated: “I’m not going to pre-empt the individual measures that will be outlined by the Chancellor in due course.”.

Winter Fuel Payment

In light of the new Winter Fuel Payment regulations, approximately 13.7 million people should get crucial information through letters by November's end. These notifications aren't just routine; they'll nudge England and Wales pensioners to check their Pension Credit eligibility—a vital lifeline that boosts the bottom line for those scrambling amidst rising costs.

The Winter Fuel Payment, dispensed by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), is more than just aid—it’s essential support allowing older residents to viably weather heating expenses during chillier times. This year’s belt-tightening will see the scheme's reach contract, potentially leaving many in the cold.

Eligibility criteria stipulate an age above the threshold of September 23, 1958, residency in England or Wales, alongside certain claim qualifications.

Pension Credit
Universal Credit
income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
Income Support
Child Tax Credit
Working Tax Credit

You will also need to have received one of the benefits during the qualifying week of September 16 to 22, 2024.