The £299 Cost of Living Payment is a crucial financial relief initiative by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to help low-income households cope with rising living costs. As the final installment in the 2025 Cost of Living Payment series, it supports millions of individuals and families facing economic challenges, such as high inflation and soaring utility costs.
This guide outlines the payment details, eligibility requirements, payment schedules, and other support measures available to help you maximize your benefits.
£299 Cost of Living Payment
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | £299 |
| Payment Period | February 6–22, 2025 (DWP benefits) and February 16–22, 2025 (tax credits) |
| Eligibility | Recipients of Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Income Support, ESA, JSA, and certain tax credits |
| Application Required | No—payments are automatic |
| Additional Support | Household Support Fund, Winter Fuel Payment |
| Official Resource | Cost of Living Payment Guidance |
£299 Cost of Living Payment
The £299 payment is the final installment in a series of three payments totaling £900 in 2025. It aims to alleviate the financial burden on vulnerable households by addressing high living expenses, such as utility bills, food, and housing.
This payment complements other government initiatives like the Energy Price Guarantee and the Household Support Fund to ensure broader financial assistance for low-income families.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for the payment, individuals must have received one of the following means-tested benefits during the qualifying period:
- Universal Credit
- Income-Based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Income-Related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Income Support
- Pension Credit
- Child Tax Credit
- Working Tax Credit
Important Note:
- Contribution-based benefits, such as New Style ESA, New Style JSA, or contributory ESA, do not qualify recipients for this payment.
How to Check Eligibility
Log in to your DWP or HMRC account to confirm whether you receive any eligible benefits.
Check the Qualifying Period
Eligibility depends on receiving a qualifying benefit during specific periods in late 2023 or early 2025. If you received a benefit during this time, you are likely entitled to the payment.
Contact the Authorities
If you’re unsure about your eligibility, call:
- DWP for benefits-related inquiries.
- HMRC for tax credit-related inquiries.
Payment Schedule
| Payment Source | Payment Period |
|---|---|
| DWP Benefits | February 6–22, 2025 |
| HMRC (Tax Credits) | February 16–22, 2025 |
Payment Method
Payments are sent automatically to eligible recipients. No application or additional action is required.
How to Identify the Payment
- Bank Statement Reference: Payments will appear with your National Insurance Number, followed by either:
- “DWP COL” for DWP-administered benefits.
- “HMRC COLS” for tax credits.
Haven’t Received the Payment
If you haven’t received your payment by February 22, 2025, follow these steps:
- Check Your Bank Account
Ensure your bank details are accurate and updated with the DWP or HMRC. - Report a Missing Payment
- For DWP Benefits: Use the DWP Cost of Living Payment page to report issues.
- For Tax Credits: Contact HMRC through their official helpline.
- Be Prepared
Have your National Insurance Number and benefit details ready when contacting the DWP or HMRC.
Additional Support Measures
The Household Support Fund is managed by local councils to provide tailored financial assistance for vulnerable households.
- What It Covers:
- Rent payments.
- Utility bills.
- Food assistance.
- How to Apply:
- Contact your local council or visit the Household Support Fund guidance page on the UK government’s website.
Winter Fuel Payment
For eligible pensioners, the Winter Fuel Payment offers extra support with heating costs during the colder months.
- Eligibility: Pensioners receiving Pension Credit or other qualifying benefits.
- More Info: Visit the Winter Fuel Payment page for details.
The DWP Festival Relief £299 Cost of Living Payment is a vital financial lifeline for millions of households in 2025. By knowing the eligibility criteria, payment timelines, and additional support options, you can ensure you receive the benefits you’re entitled to.
If you believe you qualify, double-check your eligibility, monitor your bank account for payments, and look into other available assistance programs to ease financial pressures.
FAQs
When will the £299 payment be made?
For DWP benefits, payments will be made from February 6–22, 2025. For tax credits, payments will occur from February 16–22, 2025.
Who is eligible for the £299 Cost of Living Payment?
Recipients of means-tested benefits like Universal Credit, Income Support, and Pension Credit are eligible.
Do I need to apply for the payment?
No, payments are automatic for eligible recipients.
What should I do if I don’t receive the payment?
Report missing payments to the DWP or HMRC, depending on your benefit type.
What other support is available?
You can access the Household Support Fund and Winter Fuel Payment for additional financial aid.
