With the cost of living still biting hard across the UK, the government has confirmed a second £300 payment for 2025 to support households receiving means-tested benefits.
If you’ve been feeling the financial pressure from sky-high energy bills and rising grocery costs, this payout could be a much-needed breather. But who qualifies? When will it arrive? And what if you’re not eligible? Let’s break it all down.
Payout
The second £300 Cost of Living Payment is expected to hit bank accounts between May and June 2025. If you’re eligible, the good news is that you don’t need to apply—the money will land automatically, using the bank details already registered with your benefits account.
Here’s a quick look at the core details:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | £300 (second 2025 installment) |
| Expected Window | May to June 2025 |
| Application Needed? | No – paid automatically |
| Benefit Sources | DWP or HMRC |
| Payment Reference | “DWP COL” or “HMRC COL” |
Eligibility
To qualify, you must be receiving at least one of these means-tested benefits during the yet-to-be-confirmed qualifying period:
- Universal Credit
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Pension Credit
- Income Support
- Working Tax Credit
- Child Tax Credit
However, you won’t qualify if you’re only on:
- New Style JSA
- Contribution-based ESA
- New Style ESA
Those benefits must be paired with a means-tested one to count.
Delivery
You won’t need to lift a finger—payments are fully automatic. The £300 will drop into the same bank account where you usually receive your benefits. To avoid delays:
- Double-check your bank info is current
- Make sure your benefit claim is active and eligible before the qualifying date
- Keep an eye on any alerts from Universal Credit, DWP, or HMRC
If your payment doesn’t show up by late June, report the issue through the official GOV.UK channels.
Support
Not eligible for the £300? Don’t worry—there are other lifelines available. The Household Support Fund (HSF) is a big one. Managed by local councils, it offers financial help for essential needs like:
- Energy and water bills
- Food
- Rent or mortgage assistance
- School uniforms and appliances
Each council handles its own application process. For example, Blackpool Council is giving out £300 grants to larger families to help with utility bills.
To apply:
- Visit your local authority’s website
- Search for “Household Support Fund”
- Follow the instructions listed on the site
Tips
Okay, so you’ve got the £300—what now? Make it count. Here are some simple ways to stretch it further:
- Clear old utility bills or prepay for future ones
- Stock up on long-lasting food and basic hygiene items
- Set aside a mini emergency fund, even £20-£30 can make a difference
- Use community programs like food banks or warm hubs to ease monthly pressure
It’s not a fortune, but with smart planning, this payment can offer genuine breathing space.
As the second £300 Cost of Living Payment rolls out in 2025, it’s clear the government is still trying to support those hit hardest by economic pressures. Though temporary, the help is real—and for many, essential.
Check your benefit status, stay on top of any updates, and don’t hesitate to look into alternative support if you fall outside the eligibility net.
FAQs
When is the £300 payment due?
Between May and June 2025.
Do I need to apply for it?
No, it’s paid automatically if you’re eligible.
What benefits make me eligible?
Universal Credit, JSA, ESA, Tax Credits, Pension Credit, etc.
What if I don’t get the payment?
Report it on GOV.UK after the payment window ends.
What is the Household Support Fund?
Local council aid for essentials like food and bills.
