GOVERNMENT ministers are considering one-off £500 payments to help cash-strapped Brits with their energy bills.
Families across the country are struggling under the weight of high inflation and record energy costs – with utility bills set to rise further in April.
Earlier today ministers confirmed they’re mulling over plans to give hard-up households one-off £500 payouts towards their ballooning bills.
Business secretary Kwasi Kwarteng told GMB: “We’re looking at ways that can provide more help, and I’m sure there will be more information about that in the next few weeks.”
Asked about the idea of £500 payments, Mr Kwarteng said: “Lots and lots of things have been discussed. I’m sure that’s one of the things we’ve been talking about.”
The Sun first reported proposals drawn up by experts at the Social Market Foundation (SMF) yesterday.
Under the plans all families paying lower-rate tax would receive a £300 payment, while those on Universal Credit would be paid an extra £200 on top.
SMF experts even dubbed the idea “Rishi’s COLA (Cost Of Living Assistance)” in an effort to win the Chancellor’s support.
Slashing VAT on bills and cutting green levies have both been considered by ministers, but plans to pay low-income families a lump sum of £500 to help offset the higher costs are thought to be more a targeted approach.
Still, there’s no confirmation on any way forward just yet.
Average energy bills are set to double to more than £2,200 before next winter.
A Treasury source told The Sun earlier today: “A variety of options are being looked at and as always we will keep the policies we have in place under review.”
Brits on low incomes self-isolating with Covid have been reminded they can claim £500 in test and trace support payments.
Local councils are also providing £500m via the Household Support Fund to struggling families in the form of supermarket vouchers and cash payments.
If you’re unable to pay your bills, ask your energy supplier for help.
And make sure you apply for support funding like the Cold Weather Payments and the Warm Home Discount if you’re eligible.
