The DWP Cost of Living Payment is a cash payment made by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to help with high energy prices and essential living costs. It is a one-off payment that is paid directly into the bank, building society, or credit union account of eligible recipients. The payment is available to those who are on a low income and on means-tested benefits, such as Universal Credit, Pension Credit, or tax credits. The payment is made automatically to those who are eligible, and there is no need to contact the DWP or take any action to receive it.

The DWP Cost of Living Payment is paid in three instalments in spring, autumn, and spring 2024, and eligible pensioner households will also receive a further £300 payment later this year as an addition to the Winter Fuel Payment. The payment amounts are as follows:

• First Cost of Living Payment - £301 - paid during Spring 2023
• Disability Payment - £150 - paid during Summer 2023
• Second Cost of Living Payment - £300 - paid during Autumn 2023
• Pensioner Payment - £300 - paid during Winter 2023/4
• Third Cost of Living Payment - £299 - paid during Spring 2024

To be eligible for the DWP Cost of Living Payment, you need to have been entitled to a payment for a qualifying benefit between specific dates. For example, to receive the second Cost of Living Payment of £300, you need to have been entitled to a payment for a qualifying benefit between 18 August 2023 and 17 September 2023, or payment for an assessment period, ending between these dates.

It is worth noting that if you are getting both Child Tax Credit and Working Tax Credit, you will receive a Cost of Living Payment for Child Tax Credit only, which will be paid by HMRC. If you are getting tax credits from HMRC and a low income benefit from DWP, you cannot get a Cost of Living Payment from both HMRC and DWP, and you will usually be paid by DWP only.