With rising living costs putting pressure on households, the UK government is offering a £300 Cost of Living Payment in June 2025 to support vulnerable families. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will directly deposit this payment into the bank accounts of qualifying individuals, including those on Universal Credit, Pension Credit, and similar means-tested benefits.
This one-off payment aims to ease the strain on low-income households during a period of continued inflation and economic uncertainty.
Table of Contents
Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | £300 |
| Payment Window | Between 12 June – 28 June 2025 |
| Covered Benefits | Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Tax Credits, Income-Based JSA/ESA, Income Support |
| Application Required | No – automatic payment |
| Payment Method | Direct bank deposit (often labelled “DWP COL” or “HMRC COLS”) |
| More Information | gov.uk |
Eligibility Criteria
This payment is available to individuals receiving means-tested UK benefits during the qualifying period (to be clarified), including:
- Universal Credit (including joint claims)
- Pension Credit
- Income-related Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Income-based Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Income Support
- Working Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit (via HMRC)
This payment is precisely targeted at those most affected by cost pressures—elderly individuals, families on low income, and those partially unemployed.
Payment Method
DWP confirms that the £300 payment will be credited directly to recipients’ bank accounts from 12 June to 28 June 2025. Look out for entries marked as “DWP COL” or “HMRC COLS” on your account statement.
What You Should Do:
- Ensure your benefit claim is active during the qualifying period.
- Update bank details with DWP/HMRC if you’ve changed account numbers.
- Inform DWP/HMRC of any recent life changes—like moving home.
Objective
The £300 support aims to help households manage everyday costs that have skyrocketed due to inflation. Here’s how it can ease the pressure:
| Expense Type | What the £300 Helps With |
|---|---|
| Utilities (energy/water) | Reduces the burden of household bills |
| Groceries | Helps cover food and essential items |
| Transport | Supports commuting and fuel expenses |
| Childcare | Contributes to school runs, after-school activities |
| Healthcare | Helps cover prescriptions and basic medical needs |
Can £300 Really Help?
While £300 may not solve all financial issues, it can relieve immediate costs such as:
- Part of your monthly energy bill
- Grocery expenses
- Travel costs or childcare essentials
This one-off boost provides breathing room to cover essentials during a challenging period.
FAQs
Q1. When will the £300 be paid?
A = Received in your bank between 12 and 28 June 2025.
Q2. Do I need to apply?
A = No—if you receive qualifying benefits, it will be automatic.
Q3. Who is eligible?
A = Recipients of Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Tax Credits, Income-based JSA/ESA, or Income Support.
