In 2025, as the United Kingdom continues to battle rising inflation and increased living costs, the government issued the final £299 installment of the £900 cost of living support package.
This payment, disbursed between 6 May and 22 May 2025, was aimed at helping low-income households facing pressure from food, housing, and energy expenses.
Administered by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC), the payment was specifically targeted at those receiving means-tested benefits.
Breakdown of the £900 Support Scheme
The total £900 support was split into three installments throughout the financial year:
| Installment | Amount | Payment Window |
|---|---|---|
| First | £301 | Spring 2024 |
| Second | £300 | Autumn 2024 |
| Final | £299 | 6 May – 22 May 2025 |
Each payment was automatically deposited into the accounts of eligible recipients.
Eligibility Criteria for the £299 Payment
To qualify for the final £299 installment, individuals must have received at least one of the following means-tested benefits during the eligibility window (13 November to 12 December 2024):
- Universal Credit
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Income Support
- Pension Credit
- Working Tax Credit
- Child Tax Credit
No application was needed—eligible individuals received payment automatically.
Who Was Not Eligible?
Individuals receiving only non-means-tested or contributory benefits were not eligible, including:
- New Style ESA
- Contribution-based ESA
- New Style JSA
Additionally, any interruption in benefits during the qualifying period could have led to missed payments.
How Payments Were Delivered
Payments appeared in bank statements with the following references:
- “DWP COL” – for DWP-issued payments
- “HMRC COLS” – for HMRC-issued payments
The entire process was designed to be automatic, with no forms or applications required.
Steps to Take If the Payment Is Missing
If the £299 payment has not been received, consider the following steps:
- Check Bank Statements
Look for transactions labeled “DWP COL” or “HMRC COLS” between 6 May and 22 May 2025. - Verify Eligibility
Ensure benefit status during the eligibility period (13 November to 12 December 2024). - Report Missing Payment
Use the missing payment form available on GOV.UK. - Contact Relevant Authorities
Get in touch with DWP or HMRC if issues persist.
Backdated Pension Credit Claims
Applicants who submitted for Pension Credit after 12 December 2024 but before 5 March 2025 may still receive the payment if their claim is backdated appropriately.
To qualify:
- Application must have been made by 5 March 2025
- Claim must be backdated to 13 November to 12 December 2024
If both criteria are met, the payment will be issued automatically.
Common Reasons for Payment Delays
Payment issues may occur due to:
- Outdated or incorrect bank details
- Paused or reviewed benefit payments
- Administrative processing backlogs
- Routine fraud checks
Prompt action by contacting the appropriate agency can help resolve these issues.
Staying Safe from Scams
To protect yourself from scams:
- DWP and HMRC never ask for personal details through texts, emails, or phone calls.
- Do not click on unsolicited messages related to payments.
- Always confirm information through the official GOV.UK website.
Conclusion
The £299 cost of living payment is a crucial source of financial assistance for millions of households in the UK. Ensuring eligibility, checking bank records, and reporting missing payments promptly are essential steps in accessing this support.
Staying vigilant against scams also ensures that recipients get the help they deserve without falling victim to fraud.
FAQs
What should be done if the £299 payment is missing?
Check for “DWP COL” or “HMRC COLS” entries, confirm eligibility, and fill out the missing payment form on GOV.UK.
Are individuals receiving only New Style ESA eligible for the £299 payment?
No, only recipients of means-tested benefits during the eligibility period were eligible.
Can late Pension Credit claims still qualify for the £299 payment?
Yes, if the claim was made by 5 March 2025 and successfully backdated to the qualifying period.