Cost of Living Payments: Who is eligible?
You may be entitled to up to three Cost of Living Payments of £301, £300 and £299 if you receive any of the following benefits or tax credits on certain dates:
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Income Support
- Pension Credit
- Universal Credit
- Child Tax Credit
- Working Tax Credit
Find out about your eligibility on GOV.UK
How do I get the Cost of Living Payment?
You do not need to apply. If you’re eligible, you’ll be paid automatically in the same way you usually get your benefit or tax credits. This includes if you’re found to be eligible at a later date.
If you think you should have had one of the following payments, but you cannot see it in your bank, building society or credit union account, find out how to report a missing Cost of Living Payment here.
When will I receive the Cost of Living Payment?
- The £300 Cost of Living Payment for a low income benefit will be paid between 31 October and 19 November 2023 for most people.
- If you’re entitled to a Winter Fuel Payment for winter 2023 to 2024, you will get an extra £150 or £300 paid with your normal payment from November 2023.
- The third Cost of Living payment £299 will be issued during spring 2024.
How the Cost of Living payment helped Janice
“I’m a volunteer for Silver Friends, when I moved into my supported living, we had a support worker and she asked me how I was managing. She asked me about my pension and then she told me that I was eligible for Pension Credit
It’s just completely made my life affordable to live and not feel like I have to restrict like I used to. Because I’m on Pension Credit I was eligible for the Cost of Living Payment. I get help with rent and Council Tax. I get free dental care; I don’t pay prescriptions.
With everything going up I think everyone should check whether they’re eligible for Pension Credit and any help. It just makes you think you can live life without having to worry too much.”