The Department for Work and Pensions has finally revealed the exact dates when millions of struggling households will receive their crucial £299 Cost of Living payment. This marks the third and final instalment of government support designed to help vulnerable families through the ongoing financial crisis.
When Will You Receive Your Payment?
The DWP has confirmed that the vast majority of eligible recipients will see the £299 land in their accounts between February 6 and February 22, 2024. This payment window applies to those receiving means-tested benefits including Universal Credit, Pension Credit, and legacy benefits.
Who Qualifies for This Vital Support?
You may be eligible for this financial boost if you were entitled to any of the following benefits between November 13 and December 12, 2023:
- Universal Credit
- Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA)
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Income Support
- Pension Credit
- Working Tax Credit
- Child Tax Credit
Important Exceptions and Additional Support
While most payments will be made automatically, those receiving Tax Credits exclusively will receive their payment slightly later, between February 16 and 22, 2024, through HMRC rather than the DWP.
The government has also confirmed that this payment will not affect your existing benefit awards or tax credit payments. Furthermore, it will not count toward the benefit cap, providing genuine additional support without unintended consequences.
A Lifeline for Millions
This final Cost of Living payment completes a support package totalling up to £900 for eligible households on means-tested benefits during 2023/24. For those receiving certain disability benefits, an additional £150 Disability Cost of Living Payment was provided in summer 2023, while pensioner households may have received an extra £300 during the winter months.
With inflation still impacting household budgets and energy prices remaining volatile, this injection of funds comes at a critical time for millions of families across Britain.
