The UK Government is rolling out a £90 one-off Cost of Living Payment to eligible households across the country in June 2025. This payment comes as part of the extended Household Support Fund (HSF), which continues to provide targeted help to low-income families dealing with rising costs of food, energy, and basic essentials. If you’re wondering whether you qualify or how to receive it, this guide will clear things up.
Overview
This new payment is designed to ease the pressure of ongoing cost-of-living increases. While £90 may not seem like much, it could make a real difference for families already stretching every pound. Here’s a breakdown of how it works:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | £90 one-off payment |
| Distribution Period | June 2025 |
| Eligibility | Claimants of means-tested benefits |
| Application Required | No – automatic if eligible |
| Distribution Method | Bank transfer, cheque, or voucher |
| Other Support Available | Food vouchers, energy bill help, household items |
| Official Source | GOV.UK – Household Support Fund guidance |
£90 Cost of Living Payment
The £90 Cost of Living Payment is part of a broader initiative funded by the Household Support Fund. It’s intended to provide immediate relief for families most vulnerable to inflation and rising bills. This round is funded from a fresh £842 million allocation to councils across England, with the HSF now extended through March 2026.
Who Qualifies?
To automatically receive the £90 in June, you must be receiving one of the following income-based benefits:
- Universal Credit
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Income Support
- Pension Credit
If you’re only on contribution-based or “New Style” JSA/ESA and not getting the income-based version, you won’t be eligible unless you also receive other qualifying support.
How Will You Be Paid?
Your payment method will depend on how your local council or the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) operates:
- Bank Transfer: This is the most common method. The money will go directly into your bank account.
- Cheque: If you haven’t set up a direct debit, you may receive a cheque by post.
- Voucher: Some councils issue supermarket or utility vouchers, which are redeemable at major retailers.
No application is needed if you’re already receiving a qualifying benefit. The payment should arrive automatically in June, provided your eligibility status is up to date.
What Is the Household Support Fund?
The Household Support Fund gives councils flexible funding to help their communities with basic needs. You can receive help for:
- Food and essentials
- Utility bills
- Rent and housing costs
- School uniforms or shoes
- Essential appliances like fridges or beds
Each local authority manages its own HSF scheme, so what’s available and how to claim it can vary widely depending on where you live.
How to Check Your Status
Here’s a quick checklist to confirm if you’re set to receive the payment:
Step 1
- Log into your DWP or Universal Credit online portal.
- Make sure you’re receiving one of the eligible benefits.
Step 2
- Confirm your banking information with DWP is accurate.
- If your account has changed recently, update it to avoid delays.
Step 3
- Look for a payment marked “DWP COL” or something similar between early and late June.
Step 4
- Call the DWP helpline or contact your local council.
- Ask if your area requires a manual application for extra HSF assistance.
What If You’re Not Paid Automatically?
If you think you should’ve received the payment but didn’t:
- Double-check your benefit status and the qualifying period.
- Contact your local council to see if they require a separate claim.
- If you’ve had a recent change in benefits or circumstances, you might need to reapply.
Smart Ways
Here are some practical tips to stretch the value of your £90:
- Prioritise essentials like groceries, utility bills, or school items.
- Use store loyalty schemes or discount apps to save more.
- Look into long-term savings through energy-efficiency upgrades.
- Try free budget tools from Citizen’s Advice or MoneyHelper to plan your monthly spending.
The £90 payment may not solve everything, but it can provide much-needed breathing room in tight financial situations. Knowing how to access the payment, who qualifies, and how to maximise it can make a big difference.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the £90 payment?
Anyone receiving means-tested benefits like Universal Credit or Pension Credit.
Do I need to apply for the £90 payment?
No, the payment is automatic if you’re eligible.
When will the £90 be paid?
The payment will be distributed during June 2025.
How will I receive the payment?
By bank transfer, cheque, or voucher—depends on your council setup.
What if I don’t get the payment?
Contact DWP or your local council to check eligibility or apply for local support.
