Free cash before Christmas: Cost of living payments dates and benefits for Brits

Christmas festivities for many Brits have been eclipsed because of soaring inflation and rising energy bills. But now with the support of ‘cost of living’ payments doled out by the UK government, households can breathe easy because some of this financial pressure will get alleviated.

Here’s a roundup of all the cost of living payments before 25th December and who is eligible for each payment.

November 8-23 – £324 cost of living payment

The first half of the £650 cost of living payment (£326) was paid to eligible Brits between August 26 and September. Many of those eligible for the second half (£324) have already received the cash payment on November 8. However, if you haven’t received it yet, you can expect to receive it by November 23.

People will be entitled to the payment if they receive any of the following:

• Universal Credit
• Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
• Income Support
• Pension Credit

However, for those who claim tax credits, the second half of the cost of living payment (£324) will be sent out between November 23 and November 30. The first half of the payment for the eligible candidates was given between August 26 and September 25, 2022.

November/December – £300 cost of living payment for pensioners

Pensioners who receive the Winter Fuel Payment will get an extra top up of £300 in either November or December. Winter Fuel payments generally range between £100-£300, depending on your age, the benefits you get and who you live with.

Brits are eligible for the payment if they meet the following eligibility criteria:

• Brits born on or before September 25, 1956
• Pensioners need to have been living in the UK for at least one day between September 19-25 2022

November and December – £400 energy discount

Out of the total payment of £400 which is split into six separate installments, the second and third energy bill discounts will be paid out in November and December. The first £66 payment was sent out in October and a further £66 payment will be sent out this month. Brits will then receive payments of £67 between December 2022 and March 2023.

Anyone responsible for a meter in their property can qualify for these energy discounts. Direct debit customers get the payment automatically, either as a refund sent to their bank account or as a deduction to their monthly direct debit.

FAQs

Who is entitled to Cost of Living payments?
Those on income related benefits, pensioners, and property owners.

What is the cost of living allowance in the UK?
£650 cost of living payment.