Martin Lewis's MoneySavingExpert.com (MSE) has issued a critical final call for an estimated 1.1 million people across the UK who are yet to claim a vital cost of living support payment.
The financial guru's team has confirmed that the window to qualify for the second Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) payment of £324 is rapidly closing. This warning is particularly urgent for pensioners and those claiming certain benefits who may be missing out on hundreds of pounds.
Who Needs to Act Immediately?
The deadline primarily affects individuals who were eligible for, but have not yet applied for, Pension Credit. A successful backdated claim for Pension Credit made before a specific date can still make a household eligible for the full £650 cost of living support.
This is because eligibility for the £324 payment was determined by being entitled to a qualifying benefit during a specific assessment period. A successful backdated claim can effectively place you back into that eligibility window.
The Crucial Deadline You Can't Miss
While the official deadline for a backdated claim that qualifies for the second payment has passed, Martin Lewis's site highlights a final lifeline. Households have a short remaining period to get a claim in that could still be backdated to meet the criteria.
MSE stresses that this is a use-it-or-lose-it situation. Once this final opportunity passes, the chance to claim this specific £324 payment will be gone forever.
How to Claim Your Money
If you think you might be eligible, particularly if you are a pensioner on a low income, you need to act fast. The process involves contacting the DWP to make a claim for Pension Credit.
- Check your eligibility for Pension Credit using the government's online calculator or by calling the helpline.
- Claim immediately if you are eligible. The claim process can be started online or over the phone.
- Emphasise that you wish to backdate your claim to ensure it covers the critical qualifying period for the cost of living payment.
Martin Lewis and the MSE team are urging people to share this information with older relatives, friends, or neighbours who are less likely to be online and might otherwise miss out on this essential financial support.
