Amid the ongoing challenge of rising living costs, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced a crucial financial support initiative aimed at assisting vulnerable households across the UK. Between October 31 and November 19, millions of eligible households will receive a £300 Cost of Living Payment, marking the second of three payments totaling up to £900 for those in need.
Direct Financial Relief for Eligible Households
The £300 Cost of Living Payment is set to make a significant difference in the lives of households grappling with financial pressures. Importantly, this financial relief will be sent directly to recipients without the need for any applications or outreach to government authorities. Even tax credits-only customers will receive this payment automatically from HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) between November 10 and 19, 2023.
Recipients can identify the payment reference for their bank accounts by looking for their National Insurance Number, followed by either “DWP COL” or “HMRC COLS.”
Government’s Commitment to Alleviating Financial Stress
Mel Stride, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, emphasized the government’s commitment to easing the financial burdens faced by vulnerable households during these challenging times. While the ultimate goal remains to address inflation and rising prices, initiatives like the Cost of Living Payment serve as a vital cushion for those affected.
Jeremy Hunt, Chancellor of the Exchequer, echoed this sentiment, underlining the importance of providing support to households struggling with their bills. The Cost of Living Payment is part of a comprehensive support package worth an average of £3,300 per household over this year and the previous one, aimed at helping those facing the greatest financial difficulties.
Eligibility Criteria
The Cost of Living Payment is available to those who receive at least one of the following benefits:
- Universal Credit
- Income-based Jobseekers Allowance
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Income Support
- Working Tax Credit
- Child Tax Credit
- Pension Credit
To be eligible for the Cost of Living Payment from the DWP, recipients must have been entitled to a payment for a qualifying benefit between August 18, 2023, and September 17, 2023, or for an assessment period ending between these dates. For HMRC, eligibility requires having received a payment of tax credits for any day within the period from August 18, 2023, to September 17, 2023.
The DWP also encourages low-income pensioners who are not currently receiving Pension Credit to check their eligibility, as they could potentially qualify for both the second and third Cost of Living Payments, with the third payment expected in Spring 2024. Additionally, over eight million pensioner households will receive an extra £300 payment later this year in addition to the Winter Fuel Payment, providing vital support to those in need.
Source: Gov[Dot]UK
