To ease the impact of inflation and rising household bills, the UK government is offering a new one-off £90 Cost of Living payment in 2025. Aimed at low-income families and individuals receiving certain benefits, this payment is automatically issued without requiring any application. It’s part of the ongoing Household Support Fund efforts to protect vulnerable groups from financial hardship.
This guide breaks down who is eligible, when payments are expected, and how to make sure you don’t miss out.
What Is the £90 Cost of Living Payment?
The £90 payment is a government-backed initiative rolled out under the Household Support Fund. It is designed to support low-income households by offering immediate financial relief for essentials such as food, energy bills, and daily necessities.
The grant is non-repayable and issued as a one-time direct payment to those who already qualify through existing benefit programs. It supplements earlier cost-of-living measures introduced by the government and reinforces its support for financially vulnerable residents.
Overview of the £90 Cost of Living Payment
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | £90 (one-time) |
| Purpose | To support food, utility bills, and household essentials |
| Eligibility | Based on receipt of means-tested benefits |
| Application Process | None required |
| Delivery Method | Bank transfer, cheque, or voucher |
| Administered By | Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) |
| Official Info | Available via GOV.UK or local council sites |
Who Qualifies for the £90 Support Payment?
To automatically qualify for the £90 support payment, you must be receiving one or more of the following means-tested benefits:
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Universal Credit
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Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
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Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
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Income Support
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Pension Credit
If you’re receiving these benefits, your eligibility will be assessed based on the records already held by the Department for Work and Pensions. There is no need to reapply or submit a separate form.
When Will the £90 Payment Be Made?
The £90 Cost of Living payment will be disbursed during the current financial year, with most payments expected between April and June 2025. The timeline may vary slightly by local council or case status, but eligible individuals can expect to receive the funds directly into their registered bank accounts.
DWP will notify beneficiaries via letter or SMS where applicable. If your information is outdated, you may experience a delay, so it’s crucial to update your bank details or address if they’ve recently changed.
Is an Application Required?
No application is needed for the general £90 Cost of Living support. The process is fully automatic for those meeting the benefit criteria. However, some local councils may offer additional discretionary support under the same fund, which might require a separate application.
If your council provides other forms of aid (like white goods or food vouchers), you can apply via their official website or contact them by phone.
What If You Don’t Receive the Payment?
Not all eligible recipients receive payments at the same time. However, if your payment hasn’t arrived by the expected window, here’s what to do:
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Confirm your benefit status to ensure you meet the eligibility criteria
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Check your bank account or postal address for any recent changes
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Contact DWP directly or your local council for payment verification
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Explore other grants offered under the Household Support Fund
Quick action can help you avoid missing out or experiencing unnecessary delays.
Household Support Fund: How the £90 Payment Fits In
The £90 payment is one part of a larger support system under the Household Support Fund. Other components include:
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Free school meal vouchers for eligible children
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Utility bill assistance
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Food packages or supermarket vouchers
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Emergency clothing or white goods grants
If you’re struggling with any basic expense, it’s worth checking your local council’s page for additional resources.
Tips to Reduce Living Costs in 2025
Managing a tight budget is never easy, especially with rising prices. Here are some practical ways to save:
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Cut utility costs: Compare energy suppliers and reduce standby consumption
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Shop smart: Use discount stores, plan weekly meals, and buy non-perishables in bulk
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Save on transport: Use bus passes or ride-sharing schemes for short trips
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Apply for local aid: Many councils offer rebates or food bank referrals
These steps can stretch your monthly income while you wait for official payments or other support.
FAQs
Who gets the £90 Cost of Living payment?
Anyone receiving benefits like Universal Credit, Income Support, JSA, ESA, or Pension Credit may automatically qualify.
Do I need to apply for the payment?
No. The payment is issued automatically if your eligibility is confirmed through DWP records.
When will the payment be made?
Between April and June 2025, depending on your benefit schedule and council timelines.
Can I get help if I didn’t receive the payment?
Yes, you can contact DWP or your local council. They may also offer separate support schemes under the Household Support Fund.
What if I’m not receiving any benefits but still need help?
You may still be eligible for local council assistance such as food vouchers or emergency aid under the Household Support Fund.
Final Thought
The £90 Cost of Living Support 2025 is a valuable aid during financially difficult times. With automatic processing, clear eligibility, and flexible payment methods, this relief measure is designed for fast and simple distribution. Make sure your benefit details are up to date and stay in touch with your local council for further support options.
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Aanchal is a passionate writer with a keen interest in storytelling, content creation, and creative expression. She enjoys exploring diverse topics and crafting engaging narratives that captivate readers.