Find out if you could receive the UK Government’s Cost of Living Payments.
The UK Government is currently providing Cost of Living Payments for people receiving certain benefits. However, it can be a little confusing as to who gets the help and when it’s available. Read our simple guide below to see what this could mean for you.
What are the Cost of Living Payments?
The Cost of Living Payments are extra funds provided by the UK Government to help support those living on a low income and in receipt of means-tested (low income) benefits.
How much are the Cost of Living Payments?
The Cost of Living Payments for 2023–2024 are available for people on eligible low income benefits. Totalling £900, these will be paid in three instalments throughout 2023–24.
Note: There is also £150 or £300 available for eligible pensioner households (in addition to Winter Fuel Payments). People on an eligible disability benefit should have already received £150 in 2023. You did not need to be getting other benefits to be eligible for this.
Who gets the Cost of Living Payment?
If you receive any of these benefits then you should be eligible to receive Cost of Living Payments, as long as you were in receipt of them at the dates stated for each Cost of Living Payment.
Universal Credit
income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
Income Support
Pension Credit
Child Tax Credit
Working Tax Credit
The first and second payment dates have now passed. Those eligible should have received the third and final £299 payment between 6 and 22 February 2024.
How do I get the Cost of Living Payment?
You don’t have to do anything. If you are eligible then your Cost of Living Payments will automatically be paid to you in the same way that your benefits are paid. You will receive the payments as standalone amounts in your account.
You do not need to apply or provide any details to receive the payments.
Will Cost of Living Payments be paid with Universal Credit?
Cost of Living Payments are made in addition to Universal Credit.
You will receive each payment in the same way you receive your benefits currently.
When will I receive the Cost of Living Payment?
The first Cost of Living Payment in 2023, of £301, was made between 25 April and 17 May 2023. The second payment of £300 was made between 31 October and 19 November 2023.
The third and final payment of £299 was made between 6 and 22 February 2024.
The Disability Payment of £150 was due to be paid between the 20 June and 4 July 2023, and the Pensioner Payment of £150 or £300 was due to be paid Winter 2023/24.
I think I should have received a Cost of Living Payment but I haven’t
If you think you should have received a Cost of Living Payment, you can report a missing Cost of Living Payment here.
