The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued fresh guidance on its Cost of Living Payments, explaining when people can request a review and how eligible claimants were identified.
While the DWP has confirmed that no new Cost of Living Payments will be made in 2025, those who believe they missed out on earlier payments may still have options.
Update
Between 2022 and 2024, DWP rolled out a series of one-off payments to help households manage the cost of living crisis as energy bills and inflation spiked.
A computer programme was used to determine eligibility, but in its latest update on GOV.UK, the DWP says that people who did not receive a payment but believe they should have can contact the office that pays their benefit to request a review.
The statement reads: “DWP uses a computer program to identify those eligible to receive a Cost of Living Payment. If you are not content with this you can contact the office that pays your benefit to discuss it.”
Also Read: PIP Disability Benefit Changes 2025 – Relief for 700,000 Claimants Under New DWP Rules
Payments
A full list of Cost of Living Payments issued by DWP and HMRC can be found online, including the qualifying periods. These included:
| Payment Type | Eligibility | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Low Income Payments | Universal Credit, Tax Credits | £301, £300, £299 |
| Disability Payments | Disability benefits | £150 |
| Pensioner Payments | Over State Pension age | £300 |
Rising Costs
With energy bills set to climb again on October 1 and inflation still affecting everyday essentials like food, clothing, and fuel, many households continue to struggle. However, unclaimed benefits or council tax discounts could offer much-needed financial relief.
For example, the Council Tax Reduction scheme in Scotland could save households up to £850 a year, with nearly half a million households eligible in July.
Pension Credit
Pensioners on low incomes may also be entitled to an average boost of £4,300 through Pension Credit. Yet figures show 760,000 eligible people are not claiming.
Many assume they won’t qualify if they have savings or own a home, but even a small award of £1 per week unlocks further support.
Eligibility can be checked quickly using the Pension Credit calculator on GOV.UK, or by calling the Pension Credit helpline on 0800 99 1234. Independent support is also available from Age UK, Citizens Advice, Independent Age, and Income Max.
Disability Benefits
Those under State Pension age with health conditions may qualify for Adult Disability Payment or Personal Independence Payment (PIP), worth between £29.20 and £187.45 weekly.
Over State Pension age, claimants may be eligible for Pension Age Disability Payment or Attendance Allowance, valued at £73.90 or £110.40 weekly.
Online Calculators
Free online benefits calculators are an effective way to check for missed support. They are quick, confidential, and independent. By entering details about income, savings, housing costs, and council tax, individuals can see what they may be entitled to.
Popular calculators include:
- Turn2us
- Entitledto
- Policy in Practice
- Advice Direct Scotland (which integrates devolved Scottish benefits)
Who Should Check
People in many different circumstances may be missing out on benefits. You should check if you:
- Are temporarily unable to work due to ill health
- Are working age on a low income
- Are over State Pension age on a low income
- Have been made redundant or are seeking work
- Are raising a family
- Care for someone
- Live with a disability or health condition
- Have lost a loved one
What You’ll Need
Before using an online calculator, gather the following:
- Savings details
- Income, including your partner’s
- Current benefits and pensions (yours and household members)
- Outgoings like rent, mortgage, childcare
- Your latest Council Tax bill
With just 10 minutes, these tools can reveal whether you’re missing out on hundreds or even thousands of pounds in extra support.
FAQs
Can I request a review for missed payments?
Yes, contact the office that pays your benefit to discuss it.
Are new Cost of Living Payments planned for 2025?
No, DWP confirmed there are no new payments this year.
What benefits qualify for extra support?
Universal Credit, Tax Credits, disability benefits, and State Pension.
How can pensioners boost income?
By claiming Pension Credit, worth on average £4,300 yearly.
What details do I need for benefit calculators?
Savings, income, outgoings, benefits, pensions, and Council Tax bill.
