The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced a £300 cost of living payment to help millions of UK households cope with rising bills before July 2025. This one-off payment aims to support low-income families, pensioners, and people on certain benefits. With energy and food costs still high, this cash could make a big difference. Written in simple language, this article explains who’s eligible, how to get the payment, and what to do if you miss out.
What Is the £300 Payment?
The £300 cost of living payment is part of the government’s plan to ease financial pressure in 2025. It’s a tax-free sum paid directly into your bank account, usually marked “DWP COL” alongside your National Insurance number. The payment is set to arrive between April and June 2025, though exact dates depend on your benefit type and when you qualify. Unlike previous years, this payment is a single amount, not split into smaller chunks.
- It’s for people on specific benefits like Universal Credit or Pension Credit.
- You don’t need to apply—it’s paid automatically if you’re eligible.
- The money can be used for anything, from bills to groceries.
This payment follows earlier cost of living support, like the £299 payment in February 2024, and aims to help those struggling most.
Who Can Get the Payment?
To get the £300 payment, you must be receiving certain benefits during a qualifying period, likely in early 2025. The DWP hasn’t confirmed the exact dates yet, but based on past payments, you’ll need to be on one of these benefits for at least one day during the period:
| Benefit Type | Examples of Qualifying Benefits |
|---|---|
| Means-Tested Benefits | Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Income Support |
| Tax Credits | Working Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit |
| Disability Benefits (TBC) | Personal Independence Payment, Attendance Allowance |
- You won’t get it if you’re only on New Style ESA or New Style JSA.
- If your benefit was reduced to £0 due to a sanction, you may not qualify.
- Joint claims get one payment, not two, paid to the same account as your benefit.
If you start claiming a qualifying benefit later, you might still get the payment, but it could arrive after June. Keep your bank details updated with the DWP to avoid delays.
How to Make Sure You Get It
Good news: you don’t need to apply for the £300 payment. If you’re eligible, the DWP will send it automatically to the account where your benefits or tax credits are paid. However, there are steps you can take to ensure you don’t miss out. First, check that you’re claiming all the benefits you’re entitled to, like Pension Credit, which many pensioners overlook.
- Update your bank details with the DWP or HMRC if you’ve changed accounts.
- Apply for benefits like Pension Credit before the qualifying period starts.
- Check Gov.uk for updates on the qualifying dates in early 2025.
If you think you’re eligible but don’t see the payment by July 2025, contact the DWP helpline at 0800 731 0469 or the office that pays your benefit. Have your National Insurance number ready when you call.
Extra Help for Pensioners
Pensioners on Pension Credit may also get a Pensioner Cost of Living Payment of up to £300, paid with their Winter Fuel Payment in November or December 2025. This is separate from the £300 cost of living payment and depends on being eligible for the Winter Fuel Payment, usually for those born before September 25, 1957. Some households could receive both payments, boosting their income significantly.
- Pension Credit can add £218.15 a week for singles or £332.95 for couples.
- It also unlocks other perks like a free TV licence for over-75s.
- Apply by August 2025 to ensure you get all available payments.
Check your Pension Credit eligibility on Gov.uk or call the DWP to see if you qualify for this extra support.
What If You Miss Out?
If you don’t get the £300 payment, don’t panic—there’s other help available. Local councils run Household Support Funds, offering cash or vouchers for essentials like food or energy bills. You can also look into schemes like the Warm Home Discount, which cuts £150 off your electricity bill. Citizens Advice or Age UK can guide you through these options if you’re struggling.
- Contact your local council to ask about Household Support Fund help.
- Check for unclaimed benefits using online calculators on Gov.uk.
- Call the DWP if you think you were wrongly missed for the payment.
The £300 payment is a vital boost for millions, but it’s just one part of the support out there. Stay proactive, check your benefits, and make sure you’re getting all the help you deserve before July 2025!