When is the next Cost of Living Payment in the UK

ByThiago SF

For millions of people across the United Kingdom, the Cost of Living Payments provided vital relief during one of the most financially challenging periods in recent history.

Why I didn’t receive my Cost of Living Payment
How to claim the Cost of Living Payment
How to contact the Cost of Living Payment helpline
Cost of Living Payment for pensioners – who can get it
Cost of Living Payment for people on Universal Credit

They helped families cover bills, pensioners heat their homes, and people on Universal Credit stay afloat.

Here’s what’s officially known — and what to expect moving forward.

Historic Background — How the Cost of Living Payment Evolved

The Cost of Living Payment was a temporary measure introduced in 2022 as part of the UK Government’s response to the inflation and energy crisis.

It targeted those receiving means-tested benefits such as Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Income Support, Jobseeker’s Allowance, ESA, and Tax Credits.

Between 2022 and 2024, the DWP (Department for Work and Pensions) and HMRC issued several rounds of payments:

  • 💷 £650 (2022) for eligible low-income households.
  • 💷 £900 (2023–24) divided into three instalments: £301, £300, and £299.
  • 💰 £150 Disability Cost of Living Payment for those receiving disability benefits.
  • 🧓 £150–£300 Pensioner Cost of Living Payment added to the Winter Fuel Payment.

Each payment was automatic — no need to apply. The DWP used benefit entitlement records to identify who qualified and deposited payments directly into bank accounts under the reference “DWP COLP”.

Official Stance — What the Government Says Now

According to the official GOV.UK guidance, the government has no current plans to issue additional Cost of Living Payments beyond the ones already completed.

The site clearly states:

“The government is not planning to make any further Cost of Living Payments.”
— GOV.UK, Cost of Living Payment Guidance

The last confirmed payment was distributed between 6 February and 22 February 2024 for those eligible under the final qualifying period.

This confirms that — as of 2025 — there is no official date for a new national Cost of Living Payment.

The DWP has completed its scheduled rounds, and no extensions have been announced through Parliament or the Treasury.

Speculations and Media Claims for 2025

Despite the official pause, various media outlets and blogs have circulated reports suggesting a potential £605 payment in 2025.

One widely shared claim suggests that this new support will be issued in July 2025 to assist pensioners and low-income families.

However, no such plan has been verified by the Department for Work and Pensions or published on GOV.UK.

The Commons Library, which tracks official parliamentary updates, also states that there are no scheduled Cost of Living Payments beyond the 2023–24 period.

So while speculation continues, no credible government source has confirmed a new national payment scheme for this year.

Why There May Be No “Next Payment” Under the Same Scheme

The original Cost of Living Payments were designed as a temporary emergency response, not a permanent benefit.

They were funded under exceptional measures to cushion households against record inflation and energy price surges.

As inflation slows and energy prices stabilise, the government has shifted toward long-term structural support rather than repeat lump-sum payments.

That means future help may come through:

  • Broader benefit adjustments (like increasing Universal Credit or Pension Credit).
  • Local council funds such as the Household Support Fund.
  • Targeted support for specific groups (e.g. disabled individuals or pensioners).

What Support Currently Exists Instead

Although there is no “next Cost of Living Payment” announced, several types of help remain available for those in need:

🏠 Household Support Fund

Run by local councils in England, this fund provides help with food, utilities, and essential household items.
Contact your local authority or visit https://www.gov.uk/cost-of-living to find your council’s application details.

❄️ Cold Weather Payment

£25 for each 7-day period of freezing weather between November and March for qualifying households.

💡 Winter Fuel Payment

Between £250 and £600 for pensioners to help cover heating bills — automatically paid to those eligible.

💷 Council Tax Reduction Schemes

Available to low-income or unemployed residents; eligibility depends on local authority rules.

📞 Helplines for Support

❓FAQ — Next Cost of Living Payment (UK)

1️⃣ When is the next Cost of Living Payment?
As of now, no new payment is scheduled or announced by the UK Government.

2️⃣ What was the last payment?
The final instalment of £299 was issued between 6 and 22 February 2024.

3️⃣ Will there be a new payment in 2025?
There are rumours of a £605 payment, but no official confirmation from DWP or HMRC.

4️⃣ How can I check for official updates?
Visit the GOV.UK page:
👉 https://www.gov.uk/guidance/cost-of-living-payment

5️⃣ What help can I get now?
Use local support such as Household Support Fund, Cold Weather Payment, and Council Tax reductions for ongoing relief.

Similar Posts