Cost of living payment 2025: As the UK continues to navigate the economic aftershocks of inflation and rising living expenses, many are still hoping for relief from the government. While the widely known cost of living payments that supported millions during the peak of the crisis have officially ended, people are asking whether similar help will return in 2025. And more importantly, what financial support is still available?
Though no new lump sum payments have been announced, understanding your entitlements and key dates is more essential than ever. If you’re receiving state benefits or facing financial difficulty, the 2025 DWP Cost Of Living Payment schedule and alternative support options can help you stay afloat this June.
What was the final £299 cost of living support?
The government’s last cost of living payment came in February 2024, capping off a multi-stage support package totalling £900. These were split into:
- £301 between April and May 2023
- £300 between October and November 2023
- £299 in February 2024
These payments followed the 2022 support initiative which gave most eligible households £650, broken into two payments. In total, more than eight million people benefitted. These sums were non-taxable, did not affect benefit caps, and were issued automatically—a rare financial boost during an otherwise financially stressful period.
2025 DWP Cost Of Living Payment
Before diving into details, let’s lay out a snapshot of what you need to know:
| Topic | Details |
| Final DWP lump sum paid | £299 (February 6–22, 2024) |
| New DWP lump sums in 2025 | None announced or planned |
| Key support this June | Household Support Fund, Budgeting Advance Loans |
| DWP Payment Timing | Based on benefit type and initial claim date |
| UC payments | Monthly on same calendar date |
| ESA, JSA, Income Support | Every 2 weeks |
| PIP, DLA, Attendance Allowance, Pension | Paid every 4 weeks |
| Payment and Bank Holiday Impact | Paid early if due on a public holiday |
Will there be another cost of living payment in 2025?
Many are asking whether a 2025 DWP Cost Of Living Payment will arrive this summer. According to the government’s latest statement in May, no further lump sum payments are planned. The Department for Work and Pensions has confirmed it has no current plans to extend or restart the previous scheme.
However, that doesn’t mean financial support has stopped. Other assistance programs remain in place, particularly for those in vulnerable circumstances or experiencing sudden hardship.
Other support schemes in June 2025
Household Support Fund
The Household Support Fund (HSF) remains one of the most accessible and flexible sources of financial assistance. Local councils receive government funding and distribute it through:
- Grocery and fuel vouchers
- Help with energy bills
- Direct payments for urgent household needs
- Support for school costs like uniforms or meals
Importantly, you do not need to be on benefits to apply. Councils prioritize applicants demonstrating financial hardship, which includes both benefit claimants and low-income workers. The fund has been extended to April 2026, so support is ongoing—but local deadlines and criteria vary.
Budgeting Advance Loans
For those already on Universal Credit, a Budgeting Advance is an interest-free loan that helps cover emergency expenses like replacing a broken appliance or paying for urgent travel.
You can borrow:
- £348 if single
- £464 if in a couple
- £812 if you have children
You must repay it from future Universal Credit payments over a two-year period, making it a manageable solution for short-term financial issues.
Charities and Energy Supplier Grants
In addition to government help, several charities and energy companies offer hardship grants:
- British Gas Energy Trust provides grants regardless of who your supplier is
- Citizens Advice can direct you to sector-specific funds
- Some banks also offer customer support for those struggling with debt, mortgage arrears, or overdraft issues
These resources can be essential if you’re behind on bills and need quick intervention to avoid disconnection or legal action.
Full list of DWP dates in June 2025
The benefit payment calendar in June 2025 is based on your specific claim and benefit type. Here’s how the timing works:
- Universal Credit: Paid monthly on the same date you first received payment.
- ESA, JSA, and Income Support: Paid every 2 weeks.
- Disability-related benefits (like PIP, DLA, and Attendance Allowance): Paid every 4 weeks.
- Pension Credit and State Pension: Also every 4 weeks.
- Carer’s Allowance and Child Benefit: Paid weekly or every 4 weeks.
- Maternity Allowance: Bi-weekly or every four weeks depending on setup.
How do bank holidays affect payments?
If your benefit is scheduled on a bank holiday, you’ll receive it early. For June, there are no national holidays in England, but regional or Scottish holidays might still apply. Always check with your local authority or DWP if you’re unsure. You can also find updates on GOV.UK or via your online benefit account.
Where can I go for further financial support?
Not sure what help you might qualify for? Here are resources to start with:
- GOV.UK Benefits Calculator – Quickly check eligibility across various benefits
- EntitledTo or Turn2Us – Trusted tools to explore entitlements
- Citizens Advice – One-on-one help for debt, bills, housing, and more
- Local council websites – Household Support Fund application links
- DWP contact services – For questions about missed or delayed payments
Even if you weren’t eligible for the 2025 DWP Cost Of Living Payment, these tools can help identify other opportunities for support.
Will local councils offer more help?
Absolutely. Many councils have already ramped up local assistance, offering:
- Grocery vouchers (e.g., £75–£225)
- Emergency heating top-ups
- School meal schemes during holidays
- Rent relief or temporary housing assistance
Check your local council’s website to see what’s available. These schemes are funded through the Household Support Fund but tailored regionally.
Final Thoughts
While the 2025 DWP Cost Of Living Payment may not be returning in its previous form, the support system hasn’t gone quiet. June brings with it structured benefit payment dates, open access to council funding, interest-free loans for emergencies, and targeted grants from energy firms and charities.
Don’t wait until you’re in crisis—exploring your options early can provide peace of mind and timely financial relief.
