The Department for Work and Pensions has officially announced the crucial date when millions of struggling households should check their bank accounts for the final Cost of Living payment.
The £299 Lifeline: When It's Coming
Between February 6 and February 22, 2024, eligible claimants can expect to see £299 appearing in their accounts. This marks the third and final instalment of the government's support package designed to help Britons through the ongoing cost of living crisis.
Who Qualifies For The Payment?
This substantial payment will be automatically sent to those receiving certain 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 DWP has confirmed that most eligible households will receive their payment between the specified February dates without needing to take any action.
Why This Payment Matters
With energy bills remaining high and food prices continuing to squeeze household budgets, this £299 injection comes at a critical time for vulnerable families and individuals across the UK. The payment is tax-free, won't count toward the benefit cap, and won't affect existing benefit awards.
What About Previous Payments?
This final payment completes the government's 2023/24 support package, which has already delivered £900 to eligible households through three separate payments. The previous instalments were £301 last spring and £300 during autumn 2023.
If you believe you should have received previous payments but didn't, the DWP has a dedicated portal where you can report missing Cost of Living payments.
