As UK households continue grappling with high prices for everyday essentials, the government is stepping in once again. This June, a £650 Cost of Living Support payment will be distributed to over 7 million low-income families. Confirmed by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), the payment aims to ease rising financial pressure—especially for those relying on benefits to make ends meet.
Here’s everything you need to know about the payment, from eligibility to timing and how it will arrive.
Table of Contents
Overview
The £650 Cost of Living Support payment is a one-time financial aid package provided to low-income households. It follows previous cost of living relief efforts and focuses on people already receiving means-tested benefits. This is not a loan or taxable income—just extra help for those feeling the pinch.
Who Qualifies
To receive the £650, you must have been receiving at least one qualifying benefit during the period between 1 March and 31 May 2025. These include:
- Universal Credit
- Pension Credit
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Income Support
- Working Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit (for those not receiving Universal Credit)
It’s important to know the payment is made per household. So, if more than one eligible person lives at the same address, only one payment will be issued.
Non-means-tested benefits like State Pension, PIP, or DLA are not part of this scheme, although other support may be available later in the year.
Payment Schedule
The DWP has laid out a clear timeline for this support:
| Date | Action |
|---|---|
| 15 June 2025 | First payments begin |
| 20 June 2025 | Over half of households paid |
| 30 June 2025 | All eligible payments complete |
The funds will arrive automatically in the same account where you receive your benefits. No need to apply or fill out extra forms.
How It Will Appear
Your bank statement will show this payment as:
“DWP COLP” followed by your National Insurance number
So keep an eye out for that reference during the second half of June.
Key Conditions
Before expecting the money, make sure these apply to your situation:
- You were receiving a qualifying benefit between March and May 2025
- The payment is made once per household, not per person
- No action is needed—DWP sends it automatically
- Benefits not listed above don’t make you eligible for this support
If you meet all these conditions, sit tight—your payment is on the way.
Why It Matters
The £650 payment isn’t just a number; it’s a lifeline. Households have reported using the funds for critical needs such as:
- Clearing overdue utility bills
- Paying rent or mortgage
- Stocking up on groceries and cleaning supplies
- Reducing short-term debt
- Creating an emergency cash cushion
Local councils have even noted drops in food bank usage since previous support rounds—proof that the payment makes a real difference.
What to Do if You Don’t Get It
If 30 June comes and you still don’t see the payment, take the following steps:
- Confirm Eligibility – Double-check that you were receiving a qualifying benefit between 1 March and 31 May 2025
- Check Bank Details – Ensure the DWP has your correct account information
- Contact the DWP – Visit gov.uk or call the DWP directly
It’s important to act promptly, as incorrect details could delay your payment.
Broader Impact
The £650 payment provides more than just short-term relief—it helps reduce reliance on high-interest credit cards or payday loans. It also signals that the government recognises the pressure many households are under and is offering direct support where it’s needed most.
The £650 Cost of Living Support payment is more than a financial boost—it’s peace of mind for millions. Payments begin on 15 June and will be completed by the end of the month. If you qualify, you don’t need to do anything but watch your bank account for a deposit marked “DWP COLP” and your National Insurance number.
Be sure your contact and banking details are current so nothing delays your support. While this payment won’t solve every financial challenge, it can offer valuable breathing room when it matters most.
FAQs
When will I get the £650?
Between 15 and 30 June 2025, depending on your benefit cycle.
Do I need to apply for the £650?
No, payments are automatic if you’re eligible.
What if I don’t see the payment?
Check eligibility, update bank info, and contact DWP if needed.
Will the payment show on my bank statement?
Yes, as ‘DWP COLP’ followed by your National Insurance number.
