In 2025, the UK government is continuing its support for millions of low-income households by issuing new Cost of Living Payments. Through the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), eligible individuals can receive up to £900 in total, spread across three automatic payments throughout the year.
If you claim benefits such as Universal Credit, Pension Credit, or Tax Credits, you may qualify. There’s also a £200 top-up available in August through local councils. This article explains who qualifies, how much you’ll get, when to expect payments, and how to make sure everything goes smoothly.
2025 Support Package
The government is offering targeted financial help to those on low or fixed incomes. The 2025 Cost of Living support includes three direct payments:
| Payment Period | Amount |
|---|---|
| Spring 2025 | £301 |
| Summer 2025 | £300 |
| Autumn 2025 | £299 |
In total, that’s up to £900 in support—sent directly to your bank account if you’re eligible. No application is needed.
On top of that, a separate £200 Household Support Boost is expected in August 2025. This one-time payment will be handled by local councils to help with emergency costs like energy bills or food.
Who Qualifies This Support
To get these payments, you must be receiving one of the following benefits during a set assessment period (yet to be announced):
- Universal Credit
- Income Support
- Pension Credit
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Working Tax Credit
- Child Tax Credit
Note: New Style JSA, New Style ESA, and contributory benefits do not qualify on their own. You must also receive one of the benefits listed above to be eligible.
£200 Cost of Living Boost
In addition to the three DWP payments, a one-off £200 payment is scheduled for August. This payment is meant to help cover rising household costs and may be issued automatically in some areas or require an application in others.
What it may cover:
- Heating and electricity bills
- Grocery essentials
- Emergency housing costs
- Clothing and school-related expenses
To access this support, check your local council’s website or contact them directly closer to August.
Receive Your Payments
These payments are automatic, but a few key steps will help ensure nothing gets delayed or missed.
Keep Your Details Up to Date
Make sure the DWP or HMRC has your correct:
- Bank account number and sort code
- Current address
- Contact details (phone and email)
- Information about changes in your household or income
Outdated records are a common cause of missed payments.
Check Your Bank Statement
When the payment arrives, it should appear in your account with a reference like “DWP COL” or “HMRC COL”, depending on which department issued it. If you don’t see it right away, give it a few business days before contacting support.
Watch Out for Scams
The DWP or HMRC will never ask for your bank details by phone, email, or text in connection with these payments. Any request like that is a scam. Only trust information from official government sources.
Darren’s Story
Darren, a 42-year-old from Nottingham who claims Universal Credit, received the full £900 last year. He didn’t expect it and was surprised when he saw the payment in his bank account.
He said it helped him keep his home warm and pay for medication for his elderly mother. His advice is simple: keep your benefit information updated. That way, you won’t miss out when payments are made.
Other Help Available in 2025
If you’re still finding it hard to keep up with bills or day-to-day expenses, there are more programs that could help:
- Winter Fuel Payment (for pensioners)
- Cold Weather Payment (for qualifying conditions)
- Warm Home Discount
- Free school meals or food vouchers
- Discretionary Housing Payments (for rent assistance)
- Local crisis grants and emergency food aid
Each local authority may offer slightly different support, so reach out to yours to find out what you may qualify for.
The 2025 Cost of Living payments are part of a broader safety net for households across the UK. If you’re eligible, these payments can provide crucial support at just the right time.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the 2025 Cost of Living payments?
Anyone receiving Universal Credit, Pension Credit, or other income-based benefits.
Do I need to apply to get the payments?
No, payments are made automatically if you’re eligible.
When will the £200 boost be paid?
In August 2025 through local councils.
How will the payments appear on my bank statement?
They will show as ‘DWP COL’ or ‘HMRC COL’.
Can I get help if I’m not on benefits?
Yes, check with your local council for extra support options.
