How much is the Cost of Living Payment this year

In a time when every pound counts, the Cost of Living Payment became one of the most recognizable government measures to help households across the United Kingdom.

It was designed to support low-income families, pensioners, and individuals facing rising prices in essentials — from food to fuel.

Yet, as 2025 unfolds, many citizens are asking the same question: How much is the Cost of Living Payment this year?

The answer reflects both a shift in policy and a continued commitment to financial assistance through other means. Let’s explore the full picture.

Understanding the Current Context

The Cost of Living Payment was introduced as part of a wider government response to inflation and the energy crisis.

Its goal was simple: to offer direct, tax-free financial support to people receiving benefits like Universal Credit, Pension Credit, and Income-based JSA.

These payments weren’t just about money — they represented reassurance. They showed that the government recognized the daily challenges faced by millions and acted to provide tangible relief.

However, as of 2025, there is no new national Cost of Living Payment announced by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

The official GOV.UK portal confirms that the main schemes ran between 2022 and 2024.

Even so, this doesn’t mean the end of support. While the national scheme has paused, local and alternative programs continue to deliver assistance to those who need it most.

Payment Amounts from Previous Years

To understand the current situation, it’s helpful to look back at how the scheme evolved.

Between 2022 and 2024, the UK government provided multiple rounds of payments:

• 💷 2022–23: £650 for means-tested benefits.
• 💷 2023–24: £900 divided into three instalments — £301 (Spring), £300 (Autumn), and £299 (Winter).
• 💰 Disability Cost of Living Payment: £150.
• 🧓 Pensioner Cost of Living Payment: £150–£300, added to the Winter Fuel Payment.

These payments were automatically deposited into recipients’ accounts. They appeared with the reference “DWP COLP”, confirming official status.

Each instalment was non-taxable and didn’t affect other benefits. This transparency built trust, showing how the system could deliver support efficiently and fairly.

Is There a Cost of Living Payment in 2025?

At present, the UK Government has not confirmed any new Cost of Living Payment for 2025.

Some media outlets have mentioned an upcoming £605 payment, but this information has not been verified by GOV.UK or the DWP.

Instead, the government is focusing on other long-term support measures — including wage increases, energy assistance, and local authority funding.

Still, Household Support Funds remain available across England. These local council programs help families cover essential costs such as energy bills, food, and household goods.

So while the name “Cost of Living Payment” may no longer appear in headlines, its spirit continues through other active schemes.

How to Check or Verify Your Support

If you received a Cost of Living Payment in previous years, or want to verify any new announcements, there are clear and safe ways to do it.

1️⃣ Visit the official GOV.UK page:
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/cost-of-living-payment — this page lists all confirmed updates directly from DWP.

2️⃣ Check your bank account:
Look for deposits marked “DWP COLP” or “HMRC COLS” (for tax credits).

3️⃣ Use helplines for assistance:

• Universal Credit helpline: 0800 328 5644
• Pension Service: 0800 731 0469
• Local council lines: such as 0800 023 2692 in Manchester or 0800 917 6994 in London Boroughs.

4️⃣ Be alert to scams:
DWP never sends payment links by email or text message. Always rely on official portals for information.

Other Forms of Cost of Living Support

Even though the main Cost of Living Payment has paused, several parallel benefits continue to assist UK households:

• ❄️ Winter Fuel Payment: For pensioners, ranging from £250 to £600.
• 🌨️ Cold Weather Payment: £25 for each 7-day period of freezing temperatures.
• 🏠 Pension Credit: Offering guaranteed income for retirees.
• 🧾 Council Tax Reduction Schemes: Helping to ease local tax burdens.

Together, these programs keep the support ecosystem active and responsive, even without a single nationwide payment.

Staying Updated and Informed

The best way to stay informed is to regularly check GOV.UK and Citizens Advice websites. These are the only verified sources of updates.

You can also register for alerts or newsletters that share information on new benefits, cost-of-living initiatives, and regional funding opportunities.

Remember: clarity brings peace of mind. Trust only official channels to protect your data and ensure you receive accurate information.

❓FAQ — Cost of Living Payment (UK)

1️⃣ How much was the last Cost of Living Payment?
The last confirmed instalment in 2023–24 was £299, completing the total £900 package for eligible households.

2️⃣ Will there be a Cost of Living Payment in 2025?
As of now, no — there’s no official announcement from the UK government or DWP.

3️⃣ Who qualified for previous payments?
Recipients of Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Income-based JSA, ESA, and Tax Credits.

4️⃣ How can I check if I received it?
Look for “DWP COLP” on your bank statement or confirm through your GOV.UK benefit account.

5️⃣ What help can I get instead this year?
You can still apply for Household Support Funds, Winter Fuel, and Council Tax reductions via local councils.