With inflation continuing to strain household budgets across the UK, the government introduced the £299 Cost of Living Payment as the final installment in a three-part support scheme aimed at low-income residents. Designed to help ease the impact of high food costs, rising energy bills, and general living expenses, this payment provided direct financial relief to millions.
For most recipients, the payment was automatically deposited in February 2024, but not everyone saw the money in their bank account. If you’re wondering whether you should have received it—or what to do if it hasn’t arrived—this guide has you covered.
What Is the £299 Cost of Living Payment?
The £299 payment marked the third and final portion of a larger £900 Cost of Living Support package introduced by the UK government for the 2023–2024 financial year. The earlier payments were £301 and £300, bringing the total support to £900 for eligible households.
This final payment was meant to arrive between 6 February and 22 February 2024, and it was deposited automatically into the bank accounts of people receiving qualifying means-tested benefits. Unlike some other types of support, no application was necessary.
With food prices still at record highs and energy costs placing pressure on already tight budgets, this last installment came at a crucial time for many.
Who Was Eligible for the £299 Payment?
To qualify, you must have been receiving one or more of the following benefits during the specific eligibility period of 13 November to 12 December 2023:
- 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 you were receiving any of these benefits during the qualifying dates—and didn’t have a break in your claim—you should have received the payment automatically.
Who Was Not Eligible?
Not everyone receiving government support qualified. If your only benefit was one of the following, you were not eligible:
- New Style ESA
- Contribution-based ESA
- New Style JSA
These benefits are not income-based, and the payment was specifically targeted at those receiving means-tested support. Additionally, anyone who had a temporary break in their benefit claim during the eligibility window may also have missed out.
How Was the £299 Paid Out?
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) handled payments depending on your benefit type:
- If your benefits are paid through DWP, your bank statement should show “DWP COL”.
- If your benefits are paid through HMRC, it should show “HMRC COLS”.
The payment was made directly into the bank account associated with your benefits, using the same details already on file.
You didn’t need to apply, and there was no paperwork required—just automatic delivery if you met the eligibility criteria.
Read Also: Universal Credit and PIP Overhauls for 2025, DWP Announces Major Updates and Eligibility Criteria
What If You Didn’t Receive the Payment?
Many people who expected the payment reported not seeing it during the scheduled dates. If that happened to you, here are the steps you should follow:
- Double-check your bank account between 6 and 22 February 2024 for a transaction labeled “DWP COL” or “HMRC COLS.”
- Review your benefit history to ensure you were receiving a qualifying benefit during the eligibility window (13 Nov–12 Dec 2023).
- Visit GOV.UK to report a missing payment. There’s a dedicated form to initiate your claim.
- Contact your benefit provider (DWP or HMRC) if you’re unsure about your eligibility or need further clarification.
What If You Became Eligible Later?
Some individuals who applied for Pension Credit after the eligibility period may still be able to get the £299 payment if their claim was backdated to the qualifying dates. If this applies to you:
- Ensure your claim for Pension Credit was submitted before 5 March 2024.
- Contact the DWP to confirm whether you now qualify.
- If the claim was successful and backdated, the payment should be processed automatically—or you can raise a missing payment report if not.
Common Reasons for Missing the Payment
Several issues can prevent eligible people from receiving the payment on time. These include:
- Incorrect or outdated bank details on file with DWP or HMRC.
- Pending or denied benefit claims during the eligibility period.
- High transaction volumes causing processing delays.
- Fraud prevention checks that temporarily hold payments for security reasons.
If you suspect any of these issues affected your payment, get in touch with your benefit provider immediately.
Beware of Scams
Whenever the government issues financial payments, scammers often try to take advantage. Always remember:
- DWP and HMRC will never ask for personal or bank details via text, email, or phone.
- Do not click on suspicious links or respond to messages requesting information.
- Always check updates and submit queries through official GOV.UK channels only.
MUST READ: UK Households to Get £500 Cost of Living Support – Who Qualifies?
FAQs
When was the £299 Cost of Living Payment issued?
Payments were made between 6 February and 22 February 2024, depending on your benefit provider.
Who qualified for the payment?
People receiving means-tested benefits such as Universal Credit, Income Support, or Pension Credit during the qualifying period of 13 November to 12 December 2023.
Do I need to apply for the payment?
No. If you were eligible, the payment should have been made automatically.
What should I do if I didn’t receive the payment?
Check your bank statement and benefit history, then visit GOV.UK to report a missing payment.
Can I get the payment if I now qualify for Pension Credit?
Yes, but only if your claim was backdated to the qualifying period and submitted before 5 March 2024.
Will this payment affect my taxes or other benefits?
No. The payment is non-taxable and will not impact your existing benefits.
Why were some payments delayed?
Reasons include outdated bank information, fraud checks, or processing backlogs.
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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.
