Rising food prices, high energy bills, rent increases, and council tax pressures continue to affect millions of households across the UK in 2026. While headlines often suggest that cost-of-living support has ended, the reality is very different. A wide range of national and local schemes are still available, offering financial relief, bill reductions, and practical assistance for people who qualify.
Each year, billions of pounds in support go unclaimed. This usually happens because people are unaware of the schemes, assume they do not qualify, or believe help has been withdrawn. Below are nine key cost-of-living support schemes available in the UK in 2026, explained clearly so you can decide whether it is worth checking your eligibility.
1. Pension Credit (Worth Thousands Each Year)
Pension Credit remains one of the most underclaimed benefits in the UK. It is designed to top up income for people over State Pension age on a low income.
Beyond the weekly payment, Pension Credit can unlock additional support such as help with housing costs, council tax, and free TV licences for those aged over 75. Many pensioners wrongly assume they will not qualify if they own their home or have savings, but this is not always the case.
2. Council Tax Reduction
Council Tax Reduction is run by local councils and can significantly reduce annual council tax bills. Support varies depending on income, household size, and personal circumstances.
Both pensioners and working-age households may qualify, including people in part-time work. Importantly, Council Tax Reduction can still apply even if other benefits stop or change.
3. Warm Home Discount (£150 Off Energy Bills)
The Warm Home Discount provides a £150 reduction on electricity bills for eligible households. It mainly targets low-income households and people receiving certain benefits.
In many cases, the discount is applied automatically, but not everyone qualifies through automatic systems. Some households may still need to check eligibility with their energy supplier.
4. Winter Fuel Payment (Up to £600)
Winter Fuel Payments help older people manage heating costs during colder months. The amount depends on age and household circumstances.
Most eligible pensioners receive this payment automatically, but it is still important to understand the qualifying rules, especially if circumstances have recently changed.
5. Household Support Fund
The Household Support Fund is delivered by local councils and provides short-term help to households facing financial hardship.
Support may include cash payments, supermarket vouchers, help with energy bills, or essential household items. Because this fund is locally managed, availability and application processes vary by area, and funding is often limited.
6. Free NHS Prescriptions and Health Cost Support
Many people qualify for free NHS support without realizing it. This can include free prescriptions, help with dental care, eye tests, glasses, and travel costs for medical appointments.
Eligibility depends on age, income, and benefits received. Even people in work may qualify under certain income thresholds.
7. Disability Cost-of-Living Support
People receiving disability-related benefits may qualify for additional cost-of-living support. This can include extra benefit elements, priority access to local support schemes, and grants aimed at covering higher energy or household costs.
Disability-related expenses remain a key focus of ongoing support in 2026, particularly where health conditions increase daily living costs.
8. Housing Benefit (Still Available for Some)
Although Universal Credit has replaced Housing Benefit for many people, Housing Benefit still exists for specific groups.
This includes pensioners and people living in supported, temporary, or certain types of accommodation. For those who qualify, it can significantly reduce rent costs.
9. Help With Energy Debts and Payment Plans
Energy suppliers are required to support customers who are struggling to pay their bills. This support can include affordable repayment plans, temporary reductions, debt relief options, and protection from disconnection.
Contacting your supplier early is essential, as help is usually easier to arrange before debts become unmanageable.
Why So Many People Miss Out on Support
Cost-of-living support often goes unclaimed because schemes are run by different organizations, eligibility rules vary, and information is spread across multiple sources. Some people assume help has ended, while others feel uncertain about applying or believe they earn too much.
Regularly checking eligibility, even once a year, can make a significant difference.
What You Can Do Now
To maximise available support in 2026, it is sensible to review your situation carefully. Check each scheme individually, contact your local council, and do not assume you are automatically excluded.
Applying early is especially important where funds are limited. Small applications can sometimes unlock wider support, leading to meaningful savings over the year.
Cost of Living Help UK 2026: Key Takeaway
Cost-of-living help is still available in the UK in 2026, but it is rarely automatic. Support exists for pensioners, families, disabled people, and working households, provided they take the time to check and apply. Staying informed and proactive remains the most effective way to protect household finances during a challenging economic period.
My name is Arsam, and I am the founder and author of Mymct. I created this website to share reliable mobile technology updates and important news in a simple and easy-to-understand way. I have a strong interest in smartphones, mobile apps, and the fast-changing digital world, and I enjoy researching topics that are useful for everyday users.