The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has been working to provide financial relief to UK households struggling with the rising cost of living. In 2025, the final installment of this initiative—a £299 cost-of-living payment—was distributed to eligible beneficiaries.
This guide covers everything you need to know about the payment, including eligibility criteria, how to check your payment status, and what to do if you haven’t received it.
£299 DWP Cost of Living Payment
| Scheme Name | DWP £299 Cost-of-Living Payment |
|---|---|
| Year | 2025 |
| Total Aid Package | £1,350 (Distributed in 3 installments) |
| Final Payment Amount | £299 |
| Payment Dates | 6 February – 22 February 2024 |
| Eligibility | People receiving means-tested benefits like Universal Credit, Pension Credit, and Income Support |
| How to Check Payment Status | Bank statements, DWP online portal, or helpline |
| Official Website | gov.uk |
Understanding the DWP Cost-of-Living Payment
The UK has been facing a sharp rise in living costs due to inflation, affecting essential expenses such as:
- Groceries
- Energy bills
- Housing
- Transportation
To support low-income households, the government introduced a £1,350 financial aid package in three installments, targeting those most affected.
Breakdown of the Financial Support Payments
The total package was divided into three payments:
| Payment Amount | Payment Dates | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| £301 | 25 April – 17 May 2023 | Initial support for rising costs |
| £300 | 31 October – 19 November 2023 | Additional relief as inflation persisted |
| £299 | 6 February – 22 February 2024 | Final installment to help with ongoing financial strain |
Who Was Eligible for the £299 Payment?
The payment was automatically sent to individuals receiving means-tested benefits, such as:
- Universal Credit
- Pension Credit
- Income Support
- Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
Key Points to Note
- No application was needed—payments were deposited directly into bank accounts.
- Payments were made based on eligibility during the qualifying period.
- If you were eligible and still haven’t received your payment, follow the steps below.
Haven’t Received Your £299 Payment? What to Do Next
If you expected the payment but haven’t received it, follow these steps:
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
- Ensure you were receiving a qualifying means-tested benefit during the eligibility period.
- The payment should have been deposited into the same account where you receive your benefits.
Step 2: Review Your Bank Statements
- Check transactions from February 2024 onwards for a £299 deposit from the DWP.
- Delays may occur due to bank processing times.
Step 3: Consider Possible Delays
- Payments were scheduled between 6 February – 22 February 2024, but some might be delayed due to:
- Bank holidays
- Technical errors
- DWP processing issues
Step 4: Report a Missing Payment
If you haven’t received the payment after checking the above, follow these steps:
1. Report Online
- Visit: gov.uk
Required Information:
- Full name
- Date of birth
- National Insurance (NI) number
- Bank details
2. Contact the DWP Helpline
- Call the DWP Customer Service Helpline
- Have your NI number and benefit details ready.
3. Wait for a Response
- DWP takes about two weeks to investigate missing payments.
- If no response is received, follow up for updates.
Other Financial Assistance Available
If you need additional support, here are other available financial assistance programs:
1. Household Support Fund
- Purpose: Helps with food, utility bills, and daily essentials.
- How to Access: Apply through your local council’s website.
2. Local Council Assistance Programs
- Some councils provide one-off grants up to £140 for essential costs like energy bills.
- Check with your local council to see if you qualify.
3. Discretionary Housing Payments
- Helps individuals struggling with rent payments.
- Available for those receiving Housing Benefit or Universal Credit (housing element).
- Apply via your local council’s housing team.
| Financial Support Program | What It Provides | How to Apply |
|---|---|---|
| Household Support Fund | Cash aid for food and bills | Local council website |
| Council Assistance Programs | One-off grants for energy bills | Contact local council |
| Discretionary Housing Payments | Help with rent costs | Apply through housing department |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is eligible for the £299 payment?
Anyone receiving means-tested benefits such as Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Income Support, JSA, or ESA during the qualifying period.
2. Do I need to apply for the £299 payment?
No, the payment is automatic if you are eligible.
3. What should I do if I haven’t received my payment?
- Check your bank statements.
- Visit gov.uk to report it online.
- Call the DWP helpline for assistance.
4. Can I get help if I’m not eligible for the £299 payment?
Yes, you can apply for:
- Household Support Fund
- Local council assistance
- Discretionary Housing Payments
5. Will there be more cost-of-living payments after 2025?
There is no official announcement yet. Keep checking gov.uk for updates.
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