Nowadays, the prices of everyday things are constantly increasing – whether it is food, electricity bill, or rent. In these difficult circumstances, the UK government has brought another relief. In April 2025, the government will give a one-time Cost of Living Payment (CLP) of £250 so that financially troubled families and pensioners can get some relief.
This payment will be given to millions of people who meet the conditions set by the government. Let us know in detail who will get this payment, when and how.
What is the £250 Cost of Living Payment of April 2025?
This is a one-time non-taxable payment that the government will deposit directly into your account or give in the form of a voucher from HMRC. Its purpose is that people who are struggling with financial difficulties can get some relief. This money will mainly help with:
- Paying electricity and gas bills
- Food and drink essentials
- House rent or other needs
No one needs to apply for this payment. If you are eligible, the money will automatically be transferred directly to your account.
Key payment details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | £250 (one-off) |
| Distribution Start Date | April 2025 |
| Payment Method | Bank deposit or HMRC voucher |
| Administered By | DWP and HMRC |
| Eligibility Period | February 26 – March 25, 2025 (dates vary by benefit) |
| Impact on Benefits | None – does not affect other entitlements |
Who is eligible for the £250 Cost of Living Payment?
If you received any of the following benefits between 26 February and 25 March 2025, you may be eligible for this payment:
- Universal Credit
- Pension Credit
- Income-Based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Income-Related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Income Support
- Working Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit (run by HMRC)
Note, if you are receiving more than one benefit, you will still only receive one £250 payment.
Who won’t get this payment?
The following people will not receive this payment:
- Those receiving New Style ESA or JSA only
- Those who have not made any payments at the time (due to high income or deductions)
- Those who have a conviction or penalty for any type of fraud offence
- Those whose benefits have been suspended at the time
What about disabled and caring people?
If you are receiving any of these benefits:
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Attendance Allowance
You are not eligible for the £250 CLP straight away, but you may be able to get this payment if you are receiving an eligible benefit alongside these benefits.
Similarly, if you are receiving the Career Element under Career’s Allowance or Universal Credit and also receiving an eligible benefit, you may still be eligible for this payment.
Are people receiving Housing Benefit eligible?
People receiving Housing Benefit alone are not eligible for this payment. But if you’re receiving Housing Benefit as well as Pension Credit or another income-based benefit, you may get a payment.
How and when will you get a payment?
The payment from DWP will appear on your bank with “DWP COL” and your National Insurance number. The payment from HMRC will appear under the name “HMRC COLS”.
This payment will start at the beginning of April and will be paid out by the end of the month. So it’s important you keep your bank account and contact details up to date with DWP and HMRC to avoid any delays.
How to check your eligibility?
- Check your letter: Check your most recent letter from DWP or HMRC to see when you received your payment.
- Visit the GOV.UK website: there’s an eligibility checker for Cost of Living Payment.
- Contact your local council: If you’re getting a benefit from your council and you’re confused, ask your council for help.
- There’s no need to apply. If you’re eligible, the payment will come straight into your account.
Conclusion
The £250 Cost of Living Payment will come in April 2025 as much-needed help for people struggling financially – including low-income families, pensioners and people on benefits.
If you think you might be eligible for this payment, check your status once and make sure your details are up to date with the DWP or HMRC. You don’t have to apply, just keep your bank account and contact details correct. This government support can definitely provide some relief in managing your everyday expenses during this difficult time.
FAQs
Q1: What is the £250 Cost of Living Payment in April 2025?
The £250 Cost of Living Payment is a government support initiative in the UK designed to help eligible households manage rising costs in 2025, especially related to food, energy, and essential living expenses.
Q2: Is this the only cost-of-living payment for 2025?
Not necessarily. The £250 payment may be part of a larger cost-of-living support package, and more payments may be announced later in the year depending on government decisions.
Q3: When will the £250 payment be made?
The payments are scheduled to begin rolling out in April 2025. Exact dates will depend on the benefit you receive and your payment schedule.
Q4: Do I need to apply for the £250 Cost of Living Payment?
No. If you’re eligible, you will receive the payment automatically. There’s no need to apply or submit a separate claim.
Q5: How will the payment be delivered?
The £250 payment will be made via direct deposit to the same bank account where you normally receive your benefits.
