As inflation continues to challenge UK households in 2025, the government has maintained its commitment to supporting low-income individuals. In May 2025, the final installment of a three-part cost of living support package was issued—a payment of £299 aimed at helping those hit hardest by the rising cost of food, energy, and housing.
This payment marked the conclusion of a £900 support scheme delivered over the 2024–2025 financial year. Managed by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC), it was automatically deposited into eligible recipients’ accounts between 6 May and 22 May 2025.
However, not everyone received their payment on time. If you are still waiting for yours or unsure about eligibility, this comprehensive guide will help you understand what to do next.
Breakdown of the £299 Cost of Living Payment
The final £299 payment concludes a series of three financial relief installments issued throughout the year. Here is a summary of how the payments were structured:
| Installment | Amount | Payment Period |
|---|---|---|
| First | £301 | Spring 2024 |
| Second | £300 | Autumn 2024 |
| Final | £299 | May 2025 |
These staggered payments were designed to offer consistent aid to those struggling to keep up with inflation and rising utility costs.
Who Qualified for the £299 Payment in May 2025?
To be eligible for the May 2025 payment, individuals must have received one of the following means-tested benefits during the qualification window of 13 November to 12 December 2024:
- 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
If your benefit payments were uninterrupted during this period, you should have automatically received the £299 payment.
Who Was Not Eligible for the Payment?
Not everyone receiving benefits was eligible—individuals who were only receiving non-means-tested benefits were not included.
- New Style ESA
- Contribution-based ESA
- New Style JSA
Additionally, claimants who experienced a break in their benefits during the qualifying window may have missed out.
How Was the Payment Delivered?
The payment was distributed automatically by either the DWP or HMRC:
- DWP Payments: Marked on statements as “DWP COL”
- HMRC Payments: Shown as “HMRC COLS”
No application was required. If you were eligible, the funds were sent directly to your bank account.
Missed Your Payment? Here’s What to Do
If your payment is missing, take the following steps:
- Review Your Bank Records – Look for transactions labeled “DWP COL” or “HMRC COLS” dated between 6 and 22 May 2025.
- Check Eligibility – Verify that you were receiving qualifying benefits during the 13 Nov–12 Dec 2024 period.
- Report Missing Funds – Use the official form on the GOV.UK website.
- Contact Your Provider – Speak with DWP or HMRC directly for clarification.
Late Applications and Backdated Pension Credit
If you applied for Pension Credit after the eligibility window but before 5 March 2025, you could still receive the £299 payment—as long as your claim was backdated to cover 13 November to 12 December 2024.
Ensure your claim was:
- Submitted before 5 March 2025
- Backdated to include the qualifying period
If these conditions are met, DWP should issue your payment automatically. Otherwise, submit a missing payment request.
Why Payments May Be Delayed
Delays or missing payments often result from:
- Incorrect or outdated bank information
- Unresolved or paused benefit claims
- High processing volumes
- Routine fraud checks delaying transactions
If any of these situations apply, promptly contact your benefits provider.
Avoiding Cost of Living Payment Scams
Scammers often take advantage of such government schemes. Keep yourself safe:
- DWP and HMRC will never ask for sensitive information by email, text, or phone
- Never click on unsolicited links claiming to offer payments
- Always confirm details via GOV.UK
Conclusion
The £299 Cost of Living Payment issued in May 2025 serves as a final support boost for low-income households across the UK. If you met the criteria and haven’t received it, take immediate action by reviewing your benefit status, contacting your provider, or filing a missing payment request.
With inflation still impacting essentials like food and energy, this financial relief plays a key role in helping the most vulnerable manage day-to-day expenses. Stay informed, and don’t fall for scams. Use only official government resources to check your payment status.
FAQs
Who qualified for the May 2025 Cost of Living Payment?
Individuals who were receiving a means-tested benefit, such as Universal Credit or Pension Credit, at any point between 13 November and 12 December 2024.
Can I still get the payment if I applied for benefits late?
Yes, if you applied for Pension Credit before 5 March 2025 and your claim was backdated to the qualifying period, you may still receive the payment.
Why didn’t I receive my payment even though I qualify?
Reasons may include incorrect bank details, suspended benefit claims, or administrative delays. Contact DWP or HMRC for assistance.
What should I do if I think I’ve been scammed?
Report the incident to Action Fraud and avoid responding to any suspicious communication. Only trust information from GOV.UK.
Will there be more cost of living payments in 2025?
As of May 2025, no further payments have been announced, but the government may introduce new support if economic conditions worsen.
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