Between 2022 and 2024, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) rolled out a series of one-off Cost of Living Payments to help households cope with soaring energy bills, rising inflation, and higher food prices.
While the DWP confirmed there are no plans for further payments in 2025, new information reveals that some people may have been missed and could still be owed money.
Update
The DWP recently clarified on its official Cost of Living Payments page that eligibility was determined by a computer programme.
If you believe you qualified for a payment but didn’t receive it, you can now contact the office that pays your benefit and request a review.
Also Read: DWP £5,496 Extra Pension Payment 2025 – Eligibility, Application and Benefits
This means thousands of people may still have a chance to claim payments they were entitled to but never received.
Payments
Here’s a breakdown of the different Cost of Living Payments issued between 2022 and 2024:
| Payment Type | Who Qualified | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Low Income Payment | People on means-tested benefits like Universal Credit, Tax Credits | £301, £300, £299 |
| Disability Payment | People receiving disability benefits | £150 |
| Pensioner Payment | People over State Pension age | £300 |
If you missed out on any of these, it’s worth checking your records and contacting DWP.
Support
Even though new payments won’t be issued in 2025, there are still ways households can get financial help. Options include:
- Council Tax Reduction (Scotland): Savings of up to £850 a year for low-income households.
- Pension Credit: An average boost of £4,300 per year, with 760,000 people still not claiming.
- Disability Benefits: PIP and Adult Disability Payment (£29.20–£187.45 per week).
- Attendance Allowance: For older people with health conditions (£73.90–£110.40 per week).
Pensioners
Many pensioners wrongly assume they don’t qualify for Pension Credit because they have savings or own their home. But even an award as small as £1 per week can unlock access to additional support, such as reduced bills and extra payments.
Checking eligibility is easy with the Pension Credit calculator on GOV.UK, or by calling the Pension Credit helpline at 0800 99 1234.
Calculators
Free online benefits calculators are another powerful tool. They’re independent, confidential, and quick—taking just 10 minutes to check if you’re missing out on extra support.
You’ll need basic details like income, savings, outgoings, and your latest Council Tax bill. Popular calculators include:
- Turn2us
- Entitledto
- Policy in Practice
These tools can show what you’re eligible for, how to apply, and how changes in your circumstances—like starting work—might affect your benefits.
Who Should Check?
Anyone in the following situations should consider using a benefits calculator:
- On a low income (working or retired)
- Caring for someone
- Living with a disability or health condition
- Raising a child, including one with special needs
- Recently made redundant or looking for work
- Coping with bereavement
Even if you think you won’t qualify, it’s worth checking. Millions of people across the UK are missing out on money that could make a real difference.
FAQs
Can I still claim missed Cost of Living Payments?
Yes, contact the office that pays your benefit to request a review.
What benefits qualified for DWP payments?
Universal Credit, Tax Credits, disability benefits, and State Pension.
Are new Cost of Living Payments planned for 2025?
No, DWP confirmed there are no new payments this year.
How can pensioners boost their income?
By claiming Pension Credit, worth on average £4,300 yearly.
What do I need for a benefits calculator?
Details on savings, income, benefits, pensions, and Council Tax.
