With the cost of living continuing to rise across the UK, many households are experiencing financial strain. To provide essential relief, the UK government has introduced Cost of Living Payments, designed to support individuals struggling with day-to-day expenses.
A new update, announced on September 20, 2025, has officially confirmed the second instalment payment schedule. Below, you’ll find all the key details, including payment dates, eligibility criteria, and how to ensure you receive your entitled amount.
£300 Second Cost of Living Payment: Dates & Breakdown
The second instalment of the Cost of Living Payment amounts to £300 and will be distributed between October 31 and November 19, 2025. This follows the initial payment of £301, which was made from April 25 to May 17, 2025. The final payment of £299 is expected to be made by Spring 2025.
Payment Schedule Overview
| Payment Type | Amount (£) | Payment Period |
|---|---|---|
| First Instalment | 301 | 25 Apr – 17 May 2025 |
| Second Instalment | 300 | 31 Oct – 19 Nov 2025 |
| Final Instalment | 299 | By Spring 2025 |
| Disability Support | 150 | By 1 April 2025 |
Essential Facts About the Second Payment
- No application is necessary—payments are processed automatically for those who qualify.
- The amount is deposited directly into bank accounts.
- If an individual receives both working tax credit and child tax credit, they will receive payment only under child tax credit.
- If someone qualifies for both tax credits and low-income benefits, their payment will be managed by DWP instead of HMRC.
Who Qualifies for the Cost of Living Payment?
To be eligible, recipients must be receiving at least one of the following government benefits:
- Universal Credit
- Working Tax Credit
- Child Tax Credit
- Income Support
- Pension Credit
- Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
For exact qualification details and assessment timelines, individuals should refer to the UK Government’s official website.
Key Considerations for Recipients
- The Cost of Living Payment is not subject to taxation and will not impact any existing benefits.
- If someone receives a payment they are not eligible for, they may need to repay it.
- The final payment of £299 is scheduled to be disbursed by Spring 2025.
Missing a Payment? Here’s What to Do
Although these payments are issued automatically, some eligible individuals may not receive their funds due to technical issues or eligibility discrepancies. If the £300 second instalment is missing, it can be reported starting March 20, 2026.
Before Reporting a Missing Payment, Check:
- Bank statements for the expected deposit.
- Eligibility criteria via the government’s official portal.
Following these steps will help ensure any missing payments are addressed efficiently.
Additional £150 Disability Cost of Living Payment
Individuals receiving disability-related benefits may also qualify for an extra £150 Cost of Living Payment. This additional support applies to those receiving:
- Attendance Allowance
- Armed Forces Independence Payment
- Constant Attendance Allowance
If an individual receives benefits from both DWP and the Ministry of Defence, the payment will only be processed by DWP.
Conclusion
The Cost of Living Payment initiative aims to provide direct financial relief to eligible individuals and families impacted by rising expenses. With automatic deposits and clear eligibility rules, this support ensures aid reaches those who need it the most. To avoid any issues, always verify your eligibility, check your bank transactions, and refer to official government sources for updates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is an application required to receive the Cost of Living Payment?
No, these payments are processed automatically for those who meet the eligibility requirements.
2. Can I receive more than one Cost of Living Payment?
No, even if you qualify under multiple categories (such as both tax credits and low-income benefits), you will receive only one payment from DWP instead of HMRC.
3. What if I don’t receive my second instalment?
First, check your bank statements for the deposit and verify your eligibility on the government portal. If the payment is still missing, report it after March 20, 2026.
4. Will receiving this payment affect my benefits?
No, this financial support is non-taxable and does not interfere with other benefits or tax credits.
5. When is the final instalment expected?
The third and last payment of £299 is set to be issued by Spring 2025.
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Akesh is a furniture expert with years of experience in design and craftsmanship. Specializing in sustainable materials, he shares his expertise to help people create stylish and functional living spaces.