Government grant applications are often unnecessarily complicated but when filled in properly many are awarded. Below are some top tips for making successful applications (although we would like to say there is no guarantee you’ll get the money you want just from reading this page!)

1. Know what it is you’re applying for – this may sound stupid but, for example, the central heating grant application form and the home insulation grant application form are very similar. They require the same information from you and they are sent to the same address and wouldn’t you feel silly if you get awarded a home insulation grant even though you already have adequate home insulation.
2. Check that you meet the eligibility criteria – every government grant has a list of criteria attached to it that you have to meet regardless. Home improvement grants often require you to be in receipt of some form of benefits while education grants will need you, or your child, to be in full time higher education and to be from a low income family. There are various stipulations for each individual government grant so check what they are before applying so you don’t waste your time.
3. In the case of energy efficiency grants, check the property hasn’t already received the grant – the home insulation grants and the gas central heating grants are awarded to the property and not to the tenants so make sure the property in question hasn’t already received the grants that you’re applying for. If they have then you will be turned down this time.
4. Fill in all the gaps – again, probably a silly thing to say but your application will be sent back to you if it’s incomplete. While this might not exclude you from being awarded the grant, it will prolong the process of applying and you may be freezing in your home in the meantime. Another thing to watch is your handwriting because, again, the form will be sent back to you if the person at the other end can’t read it.
5. Apply for anything you’re eligible for – even if you don’t think you need cavity wall insulation or a new boiler it can do no harm to have them, especially as they are free or virtually free. Make sure your family and friends know about the available government grants as well so that they can benefit along with yourself.