The rising cost of living continues to affect millions across the UK, and in response, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced another round of financial support. The upcoming £300 Cost of Living Payment, set to be issued in October 2025, is part of a wider government initiative aimed at easing the burden on low-income households. If you’re wondering when you’ll get paid, how much you’ll receive, and whether you qualify—read on.
What Is The £300 Cost of Living Payment?
The £300 Cost of Living Payment is a non-taxable, one-time support payment from the government aimed at assisting individuals and families facing financial challenges due to inflation, high energy costs, and other rising expenses. It follows previous payments made in 2022, 2023, and 2024, continuing the government’s multi-year support package.
This payment is separate from any benefit entitlements and will not affect your regular benefits or tax credits.
Who Will Get The Payment?
To qualify for the £300 Cost of Living Payment in October 2025, you must be receiving one of the following means-tested benefits during the qualifying period:
- 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
Claimants must have received a payment (or a zero award, meaning you’re still eligible) for one of these benefits during the qualifying period, which will be announced closer to the payment date.
When Will The Payment Be Made?
According to early information from DWP, the payment is expected to be issued in October 2025, though an exact date has not yet been confirmed.
Typically, payments are made over a two-week period, with money automatically deposited into the same bank account where your benefits are received. If you are eligible through HMRC tax credits only, you may receive your payment a few weeks later.
More precise dates will be published by the government as we approach October.
Do You Need To Apply?
No application is needed for the £300 Cost of Living Payment. If you’re eligible, the money will be paid automatically into your account. DWP and HMRC will use your existing benefit records to assess your eligibility.
Beware of scams—DWP will never ask for personal or bank details by text, email, or phone for these payments. If you receive such messages, report them immediately to Action Fraud.
How Will It Appear On Your Bank Statement?
When the payment arrives, it will appear with a reference such as:
“DWP COLP” or “HMRC COLP”, depending on which department is making the payment.
This will make it easy to distinguish the cost of living payment from your usual benefits or credits.
Can You Get It If You Only Receive Tax Credits?
Yes, but under specific conditions. If you only receive Working Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit, and none of the DWP-administered benefits, you’ll still be eligible.
However, your payment will be made by HMRC, usually after DWP has finished its rollout, so expect a slight delay. Again, you do not need to apply.
What If You’re On Pension Credit?
Pensioners receiving Pension Credit during the qualifying period will also receive the £300 payment. Additionally, they may be eligible for the Winter Fuel Payment top-up, which is issued separately.
If you’re of pension age but haven’t yet claimed Pension Credit, it’s important to act quickly. Pension Credit claims can be backdated for up to 3 months, so applying now might make you eligible for the October support.
What If You Don’t Receive Any Benefits?
Unfortunately, if you do not receive any of the qualifying benefits, you won’t be eligible for the £300 payment.
However, you may still be entitled to other forms of support, such as:
- Local Council Household Support Funds
- Discretionary Housing Payments
- Warm Home Discount Scheme (if applicable)
- Energy support from suppliers or charities
You can contact your local authority or Citizens Advice for help in identifying what assistance may be available.
What Other Payments Are Coming?
The £300 October payment is part of the wider 2025/26 Cost of Living Support package, which may include:
- £150 Disability Cost of Living Payment (for those receiving disability benefits)
- £300 Pensioner Cost of Living Payment (in addition to Winter Fuel Payment)
- Possible future energy bill discounts or other targeted support
Details of these additional schemes will be released by the government throughout the year.
What Should You Do Now?
At this stage, the best course of action is to ensure that:
- Your benefit claims are active and up-to-date
- Your bank account details with DWP or HMRC are correct
- You regularly check official government channels for confirmed payment dates
- You avoid scammers offering fake “application links” or requesting bank information
If you believe you’re eligible but don’t receive the payment by late October or early November, you’ll be able to report a missing payment through GOV.UK. This usually opens about 2 weeks after the official payment window closes.
Final Thoughts
The upcoming £300 Cost of Living Payment in October 2025 will be a welcome boost for millions struggling with the ongoing pressures of daily expenses. As with previous payments, it aims to provide timely relief to those most in need.
If you’re already receiving qualifying benefits or tax credits, rest assured the money will come automatically—no forms, no stress. Just keep your benefit records up to date, and be vigilant against scams.
For full updates and the latest announcements, it’s always best to follow the official GOV.UK website or trusted news sources.
