Skip to main content
Shelter Logo
Scotland

Getting a Crisis Grant

You can apply for a Crisis Grant if you cannot afford essentials in an emergency. You do not need to pay the money back.

You’re eligible if you’re 16 or over and on a low income. You do not have to be getting any benefits to get the grant.

What you can use the grant for

A Crisis Grant can cover costs in an emergency, including:

  • food, clothing or heating costs

  • costs due to a fire or flood in your home

  • getting your gas or electricity reconnected

  • living expenses while you wait for a first benefit payment

  • travel expenses

You cannot use the grant for rent or a deposit.

How to apply for a grant

Apply for the grant through your local council.

Check where to apply on mygov.scot.

Most councils will tell you their decision within 2 days. If it’ll take longer, the council should tell you when you apply.

If you’ve received a Crisis Grant before

Unless your circumstances have changed, you usually cannot get:

  • more than 1 grant within 28 days

  • more than 3 grants within 12 months

If your application is refused

You can ask the council to review their decision. You should:

  • write to the council within 20 days of the decision

  • explain why you think their decision was wrong

  • send the letter to the address on your decision letter

The council should let you know the outcome of the review within 15 days.

If you need help getting a review, contact a benefits adviser at Citizens Advice.

Other grants and money help

For help with one-off costs, you could:

If you get certain benefits, you could:

For help with food:

Last updated: 7 May 2024

Housing laws differ between Scotland and England.

This content applies to Scotland only.

Get advice if you're in England