With the final £299 Cost of Living Payment distributed back in February 2024, many UK households are now wondering if additional government support is on the way—especially as inflation begins creeping back up. While there are currently no new cost of living payments announced for spring 2025, there are still several valuable schemes running this March, including council-funded grants through the Household Support Fund.
In this guide, we break down exactly what help is available this month, who qualifies, and when to expect regular benefit payments from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
Will There Be Another Cost of Living Payment in 2025?
The short answer is: no new payments have been announced for 2025 so far. The £299 issued between 6–22 February 2024 was the final installment in the government’s £900 support package, which was spread across three phases:
- £301: Paid between April 25 and May 17, 2023
- £300: Paid between October 31 and November 19, 2023
- £299: Paid between February 6 and February 22, 2024
These payments were part of a larger £1,350 support scheme that also included a £150 Disability Payment and a £300 Pensioner Payment. The goal was to offset rising energy costs, food inflation, and general living expenses for households on means-tested benefits.
Unless the government makes a formal announcement in the upcoming Budget or spring statement, no additional cost of living grants are expected. However, other financial support options are still in place for those struggling to keep up.
Other Benefits You Might Still Be Eligible For
Even without a new cost of living payment, you may still qualify for several other schemes that can provide essential financial assistance:
Household Support Fund (HSF)
One of the most important support options right now is the Household Support Fund, a government initiative worth £421 million that has been extended until April 2025. Funds are distributed through local councils, which means the type and amount of support vary by location.
Examples of current offerings include:
- Medway Council: Supermarket vouchers worth up to £225
- Wakefield Council: Support vouchers worth £75
- Energy bill contributions, cash grants, and food aid in several boroughs
You don’t need to be on benefits to apply, but you will need to show proof of financial hardship. Visit your local council’s website to check availability and apply as early as possible—many funds are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Universal Credit or Pension Credit
If you’re not already receiving Universal Credit and you’re on a low income or unemployed, it may be worth checking your eligibility.
For people above the state pension age, Pension Credit can provide a significant boost—and may also open doors to other types of support.
Charity Calculators
If you’re unsure what you’re entitled to, use one of these benefit calculators to find out:
- Entitledto Benefits Calculator
- Turn2us Benefits Checker
- Policy in Practice Better Off Calculator
These tools provide a quick overview of what you could be missing and how to apply.
Read Also: Universal Credit and PIP Overhauls for 2025, DWP Announces Major Updates and Eligibility Criteria
DWP Payment Dates for March 2025
Your payment date depends on both the type of benefit you receive and when you first claimed it. Here’s a general schedule:
- Universal Credit: Paid monthly on the same date each month, based on when you received your first payment.
- Disability Living Allowance, Attendance Allowance, Personal Independence Payments (PIP), State Pension, Pension Credit: Paid every four weeks.
- Income Support, Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA), Employment and Support Allowance (ESA): Typically paid every two weeks.
- Carer’s Allowance, HMRC Tax Credits, Child Benefit: Paid weekly or every four weeks.
- Maternity Allowance: Paid every two or four weeks, depending on the preference stated during application.
Since there are no bank holidays in March 2025, payment dates should remain unchanged this month.
Extra Help Through Charities and Energy Providers
If you’re falling behind on payments or struggling with debt, it’s also worth exploring support through charities or energy suppliers.
British Gas Energy Trust
Even if you’re not a British Gas customer, you may be able to apply for a one-off grant if you’ve already spoken to a debt advisor.
Citizens Advice and StepChange
Both organisations offer free financial guidance, help you set up repayment plans, and assist with grant applications.
Supplier Grants and Debt Relief
Most energy companies offer customer assistance funds, especially if you’ve built up arrears. Contact your supplier directly or ask a charity for help applying.
Budgeting Advance Loans from the DWP
If you’re on Universal Credit and face an emergency expense, you might qualify for a Budgeting Advance Loan. These are interest-free loans with repayments automatically deducted from your future Universal Credit payments.
You could borrow:
- £348 if you’re single
- £464 if you’re part of a couple
- £812 if you have children
These loans must be repaid over up to two years, and you’ll need to prove that you can afford the repayments based on your income.
MUST READ: UK Households to Get £500 Cost of Living Support – Who Qualifies?
FAQs
Is there a new Cost of Living Payment in spring 2025?
No, the last cost of living payment was the £299 installment paid in February 2024. There are currently no plans for additional payments this spring.
What was the total amount of the 2023–2024 support package?
Eligible households received £900 across three payments, plus additional help for pensioners and people with disabilities.
Can I still apply for help in March 2025?
Yes. Schemes like the Household Support Fund are still active, but you’ll need to apply directly through your local council.
Will my benefit payment date change in March?
No. There are no bank holidays in March, so benefit payment dates remain the same.
Where can I apply for budgeting loans?
If you’re on Universal Credit, you can apply for a Budgeting Advance through your online account or by contacting your work coach.
Do I need to be on benefits to get help from the Household Support Fund?
No. You don’t have to be on benefits, but you must show evidence of financial difficulty.
How can I find out which benefits I’m missing?
Use online calculators like Turn2us, Entitledto, or Policy in Practice to see what support you’re eligible for.
Is it safe to respond to messages about cost of living payments?
Be cautious. The DWP never asks for personal or banking info via phone, email, or text. If in doubt, check official sources only.
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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.
