The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is gearing up to distribute the third and final instalment of the vital Cost of Living Support package, offering a significant financial boost to vulnerable households.
This spring, a substantial £299 payment will land in the bank accounts of millions across England, Scotland, and Wales. This marks the last of three direct payments totalling up to £900 for those on qualifying means-tested benefits throughout the 2023/24 financial year.
Who Exactly is Eligible for the £299 Payment?
You could be in line for this automatic payment if you were entitled to a payment (or later found to be entitled) for one of the following benefits between 13 November 2023 and 12 December 2023:
- 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
The payment is tax-free, will not count towards the benefit cap, and does not have any impact on existing benefit awards.
Key Dates: When Will You Get Paid?
The DWP has confirmed a strict payment window. The vast majority of eligible households will receive their £299 between Tuesday, 6 February 2024 and Thursday, 22 February 2024.
For those who solely receive Tax Credits and no other low-income benefits, the payment will be handled by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) shortly after the DWP payments, between 16 and 22 February 2024.
What If Your Payment Doesn't Arrive?
Payments are made automatically and should appear in your account with the specific reference 'DWP COL' or 'HMRC COLS'. The government strongly advises against contacting them about the payment before 23 February, to allow time for all payments to be processed.
If you believe you are eligible but haven't received your payment by this date, you can report it missing via the dedicated government portal on the GOV.UK website.
This final payment concludes the current series of direct support, providing essential help to those feeling the continued pressure from the high cost of living.
