Payments returning this year to combat cost of living Apr 03, 2023

To tackle the effect of inflation on households across the UK, the Government have introduced cost of living payments for the second year

With the rising cost of energy bills, as well as the general cost of food and shelter, those on certain benefits are entitled to up to five separate payments.

Most people will be paid three instalments across the year of £301, £300 and £299.

The initial payment of £301 is due to arrive in bank accounts between 25 April 2023 and 17 May 2023.

The following payments should arrive in autumn 2023 and spring 2024 respectively, with specific dates to be announced closer to the time.

Eligibility

To qualify for the initial £301 payment, you must meet one of the following conditions:

• You were entitled to a payment (or later found to be entitled) of Universal Credit between 26 January 2023 to 25 February 2023
• You were entitled to income-based JSA, income-related ESA, Income Support or Pension credit between 26 January 2023 to 25 February 2023 (this includes those who did not receive a benefit due to an entitlement between one and nine pence)
• You were entitled to a payment of tax credits between 26 January to 25 February

Eligibility guidance for the £300 and £299 payments is yet to be released.

If you meet any of the above criteria, you will receive the payment automatically and do not need to apply - if you are asked to apply or contact someone about the payment, it could be a scam.

Further payments

An extra £150 is available to those on certain benefits to assist with disabilities and certain health conditions - the guidance for dates is yet to be announced.

Those entitled to the Winter Fuel Payment may also receive an extra £150 or £300 on top of their regular payment - guidance is yet to be announced.

Help with energy bills

Those with a certain household income with an Energy Performance Certificate of D or under may be eligible for fully-funded energy efficiency measures.

You can visit our schemes page to see if we are running an energy efficiency scheme in your area.

Share this story