As UK households continue to grapple with persistent inflation and rising living expenses in 2025, the government has issued the final £299 installment in its £900 cost of living support scheme. Aimed at providing relief to low-income individuals most affected by food, energy, and housing costs, this last payment was processed between 6 May and 22 May 2025.
Administered by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC), this support package targets those reliant on means-tested benefits. Here’s a detailed look at who qualifies, how payments were structured, and what to do if your payment hasn’t arrived.
Breakdown of the £900 Support Scheme
The £299 issued in May 2025 was the final part of a three-installment package rolled out across the 2024–2025 financial year. These payments were designed to provide steady relief during the year to those facing continued economic hardship.
| Installment | Amount | Payment Window |
|---|---|---|
| First | £301 | Spring 2024 |
| Second | £300 | Autumn 2024 |
| Final | £299 | 6 May – 22 May 2025 |
Eligibility Criteria for the May 2025 Payment
To receive the final £299 payment, individuals must have been receiving one or more of the following means-tested benefits during the eligibility 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 these benefits were consistently paid during the qualification window, the payment should have been made automatically without the need for a claim.
Who Was Not Eligible?
Not everyone receiving government benefits qualified for this payment. Those receiving only non-means-tested or contributory benefits were excluded. These include:
- New Style ESA
- Contribution-based ESA
- New Style JSA
Additionally, anyone who experienced a break in their benefit payments during the qualification window might have missed out on the support.
Payment Delivery Details
Payments were automatically transferred into eligible recipients’ bank accounts. The origin of the payment depended on the benefit source:
- DWP Payments appeared with the reference “DWP COL”
- HMRC Payments were marked as “HMRC COLS”
No application was required to receive this support, helping ensure a streamlined and efficient process.
What to Do If You Didn’t Receive Your Payment
If your payment hasn’t shown up by late May 2025, follow these steps:
- Check Your Bank Statements – Look for references to “DWP COL” or “HMRC COLS” between 6 May and 22 May.
- Confirm Eligibility – Reassess your benefit status during the qualification window of 13 November to 12 December 2024.
- Report Missing Payments – Visit GOV.UK and complete the official missing payment form.
- Contact DWP or HMRC – If issues persist, speak directly with the relevant department for assistance.
Backdated Pension Credit Claims
If you applied for Pension Credit after 12 December 2024 but before 5 March 2025, and your claim was successfully backdated to include the qualifying period, you may still be eligible for the £299 payment.
To qualify:
- Your application must have been submitted before 5 March 2025
- The claim should be backdated to cover 13 November to 12 December 2024
If both conditions are satisfied, DWP will issue your payment automatically. Otherwise, you will need to report a missing payment.
Common Reasons for Payment Delays
Several factors can cause delays or missed payments:
- Bank details on file are incorrect or outdated
- Benefits were paused, delayed, or under review during the eligibility period
- High administrative volumes
- Routine fraud prevention checks delaying disbursements
If any of these apply, contacting your benefits provider is essential to resolve the issue.
Staying Safe from Scams
Scammers often exploit financial aid schemes. Stay vigilant by following these tips:
- DWP and HMRC will never ask for personal details via text, email, or calls
- Avoid clicking on unsolicited messages claiming to offer payments
- Always verify information through the official GOV.UK website
Conclusion
The final £299 cost of living payment in May 2025 represents a critical support measure for low-income individuals as the UK continues to navigate inflationary pressures. While the system is designed for automatic distribution, delays and eligibility questions remain common. By understanding the requirements, checking your benefit status, and contacting the right authorities, you can ensure you receive the help you qualify for.
FAQs
What should I do if I think I’m eligible but didn’t receive the £299 payment?
Double-check your benefit status for the period between 13 November and 12 December 2024. If you believe you meet the criteria, report the missing payment via GOV.UK.
Can I still get the payment if my Pension Credit was backdated?
Yes, if your Pension Credit application was submitted before 5 March 2025 and successfully backdated to the qualification window, you are still eligible for the £299 payment.
Will there be more cost of living payments later in 2025?
As of May 2025, no additional payments have been announced. Monitor official announcements for any updates.
Are Tax Credit-only recipients eligible?
Yes, those receiving only Working Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit during the qualification window may receive the payment, processed through HMRC.
What if I changed banks recently?
If your old bank account was closed or changed, and DWP or HMRC was not informed, this could delay your payment. Contact the appropriate agency to update your records.
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