DWP and HMRC Christmas benefits and discounts that could be worth thousands

The winter months can often bring increased financial pressure on households across the country. This is especially true for those struggling with energy bills as households depend more on using their heating to keep warm as temperatures continue to plummet.

This, alongside the financial concerns associated with Christmas, means that many will be looking for ways to cut costs where they can. Fortunately, a wide range of support is available for Britain's most vulnerable.

Some of the support available includes direct discounts to energy bills, financial support with purchasing household essentials, and payments to help with childcare. For a full breakdown on the support available to you across the winter months, read below.

Depending on your living and economic situation, you could see a significant discount in your council tax bill.In some cases, you may even be eligible for a complete discount, meaning you don't have to put down any cash for your council tax bill.

You can receive a discount if you're:

A band D property will generally pay more than £2,000 a year in council tax. This means that if you qualify for a complete discount, all that money is going back into your savings.

Discretionary Housing Payments (DHPs) provide financial aid to those struggling with rent or housing expenses. If you're currently receiving either Housing Benefit or the housing component of Universal Credit and require extra funds to keep your accommodation, a DHP could be an option.

This discretionary payment can help bridge a gap in rent, cover rent deposits, or pay for advance rent if you're moving to a new address. Applications should be submitted to your local council.

Find out more about applying for DHPs here.

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