The UK government has introduced various measures to support low-income households amid the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. One of the most significant was the £299 Cost of Living Paymentwhich was disbursed in February 2025. For millions of people, this payment provided much-needed financial relief, helping with food, rent, and energy bills.

But with expenses still rising, many are wondering: What comes next? This guide breaks down the details of the £299 payment, eligibility criteria, future government support, and practical ways to manage financial challenges.

Key Details

£299 Cost of Living Payment

The £299 Cost of Living Payment was the final installment of the £900 government support package issued during the 2023–24 financial year. This initiative aimed to help low-income households cope with rising living expenses.

Timeline of Payments

• £301 – Paid between April 25 and May 17, 2023
• £300 – Paid between October 31 and November 19, 2023
• £299 – Paid between February 6 and February 22, 2025

These payments were part of the government’s broader cost-of-living support strategydesigned to assist those struggling to afford food, energy, and housing costs.

Who Was Eligible?

To qualify for the £299 Cost of Living Payment, you must have been receiving one of the following benefits during the designated qualifying period:

• Universal Credit
• Income-Based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
• Income- Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
• Income Support
• Pension Credit
• Child Tax Credit
• Working Tax Credit

The exact qualifying period was set by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and checked against benefit records.

What If You Didn’t Receive the Payment?

If you believe you were eligible but did not receive the payment:

• Check your bank account for deposits labeled DWP col (Cost of Living Payment).
• Ensure you were receiving a qualifying benefit during the eligibility period.
• Contact the DWP helpline at 0800 916 0651 with your National Insurance number and proof of benefits.

Cost of Living Payments in 2025

As of now, the £299 payment was the final installment for the 2023–24 support package. The government has not announced additional Cost of Living Payments for 2025.

HSF Extended Until April 2025

Even though no new payments have been confirmed, the government has extended the Household Support Fund (HSF) with an additional £500 million for local councils. This fund provides:

• Cash grants
• Food vouchers
• Help with energy bills

How to Apply for the Household Support Fund

• Visit your local council’s website to check eligibility and application details.
• Each council has its own criteria, but priority is given to low-income families and those on benefits.
• Search Find Your Local Council to apply.

How to Check Eligibility

If you’re unsure whether you qualified for the Cost of Living Payment, follow these steps:

Step 1

Check your DWP records or login to your Universal Credit or Pension Credit account to see if you received one of the qualifying benefits.

Step 2

Eligibility was based on benefits received during specific months in 2023. The DWP’s official website provides details on qualifying periods.

Step 3

If your circumstances changed or you’re unsure about eligibility, call the DWP helpline for clarification.

How to Manage Rising Costs During the Crisis

While government support helps, taking proactive steps can make a big difference in handling rising expenses.

1. Maximize Your Benefits

You may qualify for additional government assistance, such as:

• Warm Home Discount – Reduces winter energy bills.
• Housing Benefit – Helps cover rent costs.
• Council Tax Reduction – Lowers your council tax bill.

Check your eligibility using the Government Benefits Calculator.

2. Create a Budget

A clear budget helps you manage spending more effectively.

• Use free budgeting tools like the MoneyHelper Budget Planner.
• Identify areas where you can cut costs (subscriptions, luxury expenses, etc.).
• Plan for essential expenses first (rent, food, utilities).

3. Reduce Energy Costs

• Switch to energy-efficient appliances and LED bulbs.
• Apply for insulation grants through the Energy Company Obligation (ECO) scheme.
• Use smart meters to track and manage energy consumption.

Know more about ECO Grants.

4. Seek Support from Charities

Many charities and food banks provide additional help:

• Trussell Trust – Offers food banks and emergency assistance.
• Gymnastics – Provides financial aid and benefit advice.

Find a food bank near you using Trussell Trust’s Finder.

5. Contact Service Providers for Help

If you’re struggling with rent or utility billscontact your provider to discuss:

• Payment plans
• Hardship funds
• Discount schemes

Many companies offer flexible options for customers in financial difficulty.

The £299 Cost of Living Payment in 2025 provided essential support to millions of UK households. However, with the rising cost of livingit’s crucial to explore other financial assistance options.

• Check if you qualify for extra benefits.
• Use budgeting tools to manage expenses.
• Apply for Household Support Fund aid through your local council.
• Seek help from charities and support programs.

Staying informed and taking proactive steps can help you navigate financial challenges more effectively.

FAQs