UK £250 Cost of Living Payment in April 2025: Eligibility, Payment Dates & How to Claim
The UK government is rolling out a new financial assistance package aimed at helping households cope with the ongoing rise in living expenses. Starting in April 2025, eligible residents will receive a one-off £250 Cost of Living Payment to help cover essential everyday costs.
As inflation continues to impact budgets across the country, this payment is expected to offer some much-needed breathing room — particularly for lower-income families battling rising energy prices and the high cost of food. Let’s break down who’s eligible, when the money will be paid, and how to check if you qualify.
£250 Relief Payment – What You Need to Know
This Cost of Living Payment is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to support those hit hardest by inflation and economic challenges. Even though there are signs that the financial climate is slowly stabilising, many households are still facing serious pressure.
The eligibility criteria for 2025 have been slightly updated to make sure the payment goes to those who need it the most. Sarah Davies, a 43-year-old single parent from Cardiff, shared:
“Every little bit helps, especially when every bill feels overwhelming. Last winter was tough with soaring heating costs, so knowing the government is helping out again brings some relief.”
Who Will Receive the £250 Payment?
To qualify for the £250 support, you must be receiving one or more of the following government benefits between 15 January and 28 February 2025:
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Universal Credit
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Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
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Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
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Income Support
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Pension Credit
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Working Tax Credit
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Child Tax Credit
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NEW in 2025: Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
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NEW: Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
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NEW: Attendance Allowance
The inclusion of PIP, DLA, and Attendance Allowance is new this year — offering much-needed support to people with disabilities or chronic health conditions who often face steeper living expenses.
Payment Schedule and Key Dates
| Stage | Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Eligibility Window | 15 Jan – 28 Feb 2025 | You must be receiving eligible benefits during this time. |
| Announcement Date | 21 March 2025 | Government confirms the final list of eligible recipients. |
| Payments Begin | 8 April 2025 | First payments start to arrive. |
| Payments End | 28 April 2025 | All eligible payments should be made by this date. |
| Late Claims Open | 5 May 2025 | Start date to report missing payments. |
| Late Claims Close | 31 July 2025 | Final deadline for backdated claims. |
How Will the £250 Be Paid?
The payment will be made automatically — you do not need to apply. It will appear in your bank account with one of the following references:
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“DWP COL” for payments from the Department for Work and Pensions
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“HMRC COLP” for those only receiving tax credits
No paperwork is needed; the money will simply arrive if you meet the criteria.
How to Check If You’re Eligible
1. Online Portal
The government has launched a dedicated online service where you can verify your eligibility. You’ll need:
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Your National Insurance Number
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Information on benefits you receive
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Some basic details about your household
Visit the official GOV.UK or DWP website to use the portal.
2. Telephone Helpline
If you don’t have internet access, call the support line:
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Living Support Helpline: 0800-XXX-XXXX
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Hours: Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 6 PM
3. In-Person Help
Local council offices and Citizens Advice Bureaus will be offering face-to-face support for those who need help checking eligibility or understanding the process.
Missed the Payment? Here’s What to Do
If you’re eligible but haven’t received your £250 by 30 April 2025, take these steps:
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Double-check your eligibility using the online portal.
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Review your bank statement — look for “DWP COL” or “HMRC COLP.”
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Contact the helpline to report the issue.
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File a complaint or late claim through the GOV.UK website.
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Keep a record of all correspondence and any reference numbers you’re given.
Other Financial Help You Might Qualify For
The £250 payment is just one part of a wider package of support. Other schemes include:
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Household Support Fund – Emergency help through your local council.
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Energy Bill Support Scheme – Reduced energy rates for low-income households.
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Council Tax Discounts – Larger discounts for eligible residents based on income or family status.
Closing Thoughts: How This Payment Can Make a Difference
The upcoming £250 payment in April 2025 could be a real lifeline for millions of people trying to manage rising costs. The expansion to include more types of disability support is a welcome step toward inclusivity.
Lisa Jenkins, 35, from Manchester, explained:
“£250 might not seem like a fortune, but when you’re counting every pound, it matters. I’ll be using mine to buy school clothes for the kids and maybe finally fix the washing machine.”
If you think you’re eligible, check your details are up to date and stay alert for scam messages. Always refer to official government sources for accurate information.
FAQs – £250 Cost of Living Support
Q: Who can receive the £250 payment?
A: Anyone receiving qualifying benefits between 15 January and 28 February 2025, including Universal Credit, Pension Credit, or disability benefits like PIP or DLA.
Q: When will I get the payment?
A: Payments begin on 8 April 2025 and should all be completed by 28 April 2025.
Q: Do I need to apply?
A: No application is necessary — the payment is made automatically.
Q: What if I don’t receive it?
A: Use the online portal to check eligibility, call the helpline, and submit a late claim if needed between 5 May and 31 July 2025.
Q: How will the money appear in my bank account?
A: It will show up under “DWP COL” or “HMRC COLP,” depending on which department issued it.