The UK government has announced a major support package designed to ease the burden of rising living costs for vulnerable households.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) confirms that eligible claimants will receive up to £500 in cost-of-living payments, delivered automatically across multiple instalments.
This assistance comes at a critical time, as millions of families face increasing pressure from inflation, escalating energy bills and everyday expenses.
What is the payment and how much is it?
This new £500 support payment is aimed at helping households on low incomes or receiving certain benefits. Rather than a single lump sum, the payment is being delivered in phases so that the relief is timely and spread over the year.
1. Payment overview:
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Programme | Cost-of-Living Payment by DWP |
| Maximum amount | Up to £500 (depending on eligibility) |
| Payment structure | Multiple instalments across the year |
| Eligible groups | Benefit-claimants (Universal Credit, Pension Credit, ESA, JSA, etc), disabled individuals, low-income families |
| Delivery method | Automatic payment into bank account—no separate application required |
| Additional support | Other schemes such as Household Support Fund and Warm Home Discount still active |
Payment schedule & instalments
The phased approach ensures support arrives when households are under greatest pressure: spring, summer or autumn. The DWP confirms that payments will be processed automatically when you meet eligibility rules at a qualifying time-frame.
Key details:
- The first instalment will be paid in early part of the year, once eligibility is confirmed.
- Subsequent payments will arrive later in the year, potentially coinciding with high-cost periods (e.g., energy peak, winter).
- You do not need to claim separately if you’re already receiving qualifying benefits—the payment will be deposited directly.
Who is eligible and what are the rules?
Eligibility is centred around receipt of certain benefits during a set qualifying window and being impacted by rising costs. Importantly, you do not need to fill in a separate application form if you are on the right benefit and time-frame.
1. Eligibility highlights:
- You must be receiving one or more qualifying benefits (such as Universal Credit, Pension Credit, income-based JSA/ESA, Income Support).
- You must meet the qualifying week or assessment period defined by the DWP.
- You must have the correct bank account information on file to receive the payment.
- Households with disabled members or high energy usage due to medical conditions may get special consideration.
The automatic nature of the payment means missed bank details or delays in benefit processing may delay receipt—so it’s important claimants check their details are up to date.
Why this payment matters
With inflation, soaring food costs and energy bills hitting households hard, this extra support is targeted to those who are most vulnerable.
By delivering up to £500 through established benefit routes, the government aims to reduce financial stress and support day-to-day essentials for low-income families, pensioners and disabled claimants.
Furthermore, spreading the payment across the year means relief comes when it’s needed most—and helps households avoid falling into debt or skipping vital spending.
What you should check
- Ensure your bank account information with DWP/benefit service is current and correct.
- Verify you have received the qualifying benefit during the correct assessment or qualifying period.
- Monitor your bank statements around payment dates for the automatic deposit.
- If you believe you qualify and haven’t received payment, contact DWP/benefits service promptly.
The DWP’s confirmation of up to £500 in cost-of-living support offers much-needed relief for thousands of UK households struggling with higher costs.
By targeting those on qualifying benefits and spreading payments over the year, the scheme aims to reduce pressure when it matters most.
If you meet the eligibility criteria, you can expect the payment to arrive automatically—just make sure your details are up to date and you stay ready to receive it.
FAQs
Do I need to apply for this payment?
No. If you receive one of the qualifying benefits and meet the correct assessment period, the payment will be deposited automatically—no separate claim is required.
How much will I get and when?
You could receive up to £500, delivered in instalments across the year (spring, summer/autumn) depending on your eligibility and when you hold the qualifying benefit.
What benefits qualify me for this payment?
Qualifying benefits include Universal Credit, Pension Credit, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, income-related Employment and Support Allowance, Income Support and other means-tested benefits. You must be receiving one of these during the defined qualifying period.
