Since the start of the current credit crunch the number of people applying for government grants has shot up by nearly 30%. This means that more and more people are becoming aware of the free government help that’s on offer and if you carry on reading you’ll become aware as well.

So what are Government Grants?
Government grants are money, or more commonly vouchers, that can be redeemed against things that you want or need to buy. There are various grants available, mostly for the home but you can also get education grants and numerous other benefits just by applying.

What are the Grants for?
A lot of the current government grants are designed to help you improve the efficiency and state of your home. Both the government and the energy suppliers are offering grants to improve the energy efficiency of properties in a bid to conserve the environment and lower carbon emissions. This type of grant is usually put towards a new boiler or loft and wall insulation – both of which will save you money in the long run.

The government and the local councils also offer grants to help repair and maintain your home, especially if you are elderly, on low income or disabled. These grants can be put towards new PVC windows and doors or on installing a new kitchen or bathroom. Either way, they are going to benefit you.

Who is eligible for Government Grants?
Not everyone is eligible for some of the Government grants and you’ll need to meet the conditions for claiming before doing anything. Anyone can apply for home insulation grants regardless of income but for the gas central heating grants you’ll need to be in receipt of certain benefits or tax credits. Visit the government website for more details and for a list of the qualifying criteria.

How much are the Grants worth?
This depends on a number of factors, including your income and the grant you’re applying for. Most people who apply for home insulation grants are awarded between 50-100% of the total cost and so they’re well worth applying for. Gas central heating grants differ according to the individual requirements of the property however it is possible to get around £2600 towards a new boiler or additional insulation.

What’s the catch?
Obviously there’s a catch but it’s only a small one. The money you receive from most Government grants will only pay for a proportion of the goods you’re buying so you have to pay the remainder. In addition, the vouchers or money order that you receive will normally only be accepted by certain companies, and these companies may not be the cheapest by a long way. Saying that, you’re still very likely to save money by using the grant money and so it would be a waste not to apply.

How do I apply?
There are numerous legitimate websites on the internet that will help you to claim your share of the government grants on offer. The one you choose shouldn’t charge you anything to make the claim so beware of those that do. Alternatively you can visit the official government website and phone the relevant helpline to see if you qualify. If you do, you will be sent an application form that is simple to fill in and send back. Even if you don’t get awarded the full grant, anything is better than nothing.