The Department for Work and Pensions has finally broken its silence, revealing the exact payment window for the crucial third Cost of Living payment worth £299. Millions of struggling households across Britain can now mark their calendars for this vital financial support.
When Will the Money Hit Your Account?
The DWP has confirmed that the substantial £299 payment will land in eligible accounts between February 6, 2024 and February 22, 2024. This marks the final instalment in the government's three-part Cost of Living support package for the 2023/24 financial year.
Who Qualifies for This Payment?
This financial lifeline is available to recipients of various means-tested benefits, including:
- Universal Credit
- Pension Credit
- Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Income Support
- Working Tax Credit
- Child Tax Credit
The Full Picture: Three Payments Totalling £900
This February payment completes the trilogy of support payments that began earlier in the year. Eligible households should have already received:
- £301 paid between April 25 and May 17
- £300 paid between October 31 and November 19
- £299 scheduled for February 6-22
Combined, these payments provide £900 in crucial financial support to help families weather the ongoing cost of living crisis.
What About Tax Credit Claimants?
For those who receive Tax Credits exclusively and don't claim other DWP benefits, HMRC will handle your payments separately. The payment window remains the same, but the processing department differs.
Why This Payment Matters Now
With winter energy bills biting and food prices remaining stubbornly high, this £299 injection comes at a critical time for millions. Many households are relying on this support to help cover essential costs during the coldest months of the year.
The DWP emphasises that payments should appear automatically in eligible accounts, requiring no application from recipients. However, they advise keeping your benefit claims up to date to ensure you don't miss out on this crucial financial support.