The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has provided a significant update on the £301 Cost of Living Payment, offering clarity to millions of Britons awaiting financial relief.
Who Qualifies for the Payment?
Eligibility for the £301 payment is linked to receiving certain benefits during the qualifying period (26 January to 25 February 2023). These benefits include:
- 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
When Will Payments Arrive?
The DWP has confirmed that most eligible recipients should have already received their payment between 25 April and 17 May 2023. However, some cases may experience delays due to processing times or verification requirements.
What If You Haven’t Received Your Payment?
If you believe you qualify but haven’t received the payment by 17 May, the DWP advises:
- Check your bank account carefully – the payment reference will include your National Insurance number followed by 'DWP COL'
- Allow until 23 May before reporting a missing payment
- Contact the relevant office handling your benefits if payment still hasn’t arrived
Future Cost of Living Payments
This £301 payment is just the first of three planned Cost of Living Payments for 2023-24. The government has scheduled two further payments of £300 and £299 for later in the financial year, though exact dates haven’t been confirmed.
The DWP continues to urge vulnerable households to check their eligibility for additional support, including the Warm Home Discount and Household Support Fund.
