Low-income families in the UK have been especially affected by the present economic difficulty. The UK government has promised that from June 2025, people will receive a Cost of Living Payment worth £250 to make things easier.
The payment is part of the Household Support Fund (HSF), a £742 million support scheme aimed at providing immediate relief to families in need – especially those struggling to pay for utility bills, food, and essential living expenses.
In this article, we’ll explain what qualifies for the scheme, when you’ll receive a payment, and how to apply if you’re not automatically eligible.
£250 Cost of Living Payment – June 2025: Key highlights
The payment will be given as a one-off cash boost aimed at helping those who are in a financially vulnerable position. This is for people who are already receiving certain means-tested benefits or who have a very low income.
This time the payment is not the same for everyone, but is targeted support. This means that only those who really need it will get this amount.
Key details (at a glance)
Detail | Information |
---|---|
Payment Amount | £250 |
Payment Dates | 24 June – 5 July 2025 |
Part of Scheme | Household Support Fund (HSF) |
Automatic Payment | Yes, if qualifying benefits are received |
Application Needed | Yes, in some cases |
Administering Bodies | DWP, HMRC, Local Councils |
Benefit Types Covered | Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Income Support, Tax Credits |
Affects Other Benefits? | No, it’s non-taxable and paid separately |
Savings Limit | Typically under £16,000 |
Eligibility Criteria
The following conditions must be met to receive the £250 living payment:
- Local eligibility – the local council in your area must be taking part in the scheme.
- Low income or financial difficulty – you must be on a very low income or currently in financial difficulty.
Receipt of qualifying benefits – such as:
- Universal Credit
- Pension Credit
- Income Support
- Tax Credits
- Savings threshold – usually less than £16,000.
Note: In some cases, the local council cannot get your details automatically, so it will be necessary to apply.
Payment date and deadline
The payment date depends on the benefit you are receiving and the organisation providing it. Below is a breakdown of the payment deadlines:
Benefit Type | Administering Body | Payment Dates |
---|---|---|
Universal Credit | DWP | 24 June – 28 June 2025 |
Pension Credit | DWP | 25 June – 2 July 2025 |
Tax Credits | HMRC | 1 July – 5 July 2025 |
How to apply (if not receiving automatic payment)
If you are not receiving the above benefits or your name is not on the local council list, you will need to apply. General application process:
- Contact the local council – check with your area’s website or office.
- Submit the required documents – such as income certificate, benefit copy, ID card etc.
- Wait for application confirmation – the council will let you know by email, post or portal.
Tip: As budgets are limited and deadlines are tight, apply early if you are not sure whether you are automatically eligible.

Aim and impact of the scheme
The main aim of this one-off payment is to:
- Relieve financial pressure – especially for essential expenses such as food, energy and rent.
- Targeted support – direct help to those in need, rather than a blanket payment.
- No impact on other benefits – this payment will be completely separate and will not affect your existing benefits.
This approach takes into account the different needs of communities, where each family’s situation may be different.
Extra Support Schemes
As well as this £250 living payment, the Government and other agencies run a number of other schemes:
- Household Support Fund (HSF) – support from local councils for food and energy costs.
- Energy Grants – relief from old electricity/gas bills from some energy companies.
- Budgeting Advance – emergency loans without interest to those on Universal Credit.
- Check eligibility for these schemes too – it could be a good source of extra relief.
Conclusion
The £250 living wage payment, which will be available in June 2025, brings much-needed relief to thousands of UK families. Whether it comes automatically or you have to apply – this support can help you get through tough economic times.
FAQs
1. Who is eligible for the £250 Cost of Living Support in June 2025?
The payment is primarily for low-income individuals or families receiving means-tested benefits such as Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Income Support, or Tax Credits. Some local councils may also consider applicants facing financial hardship even if they’re not receiving those benefits.
2. Is the £250 payment automatic for everyone?
No, not for everyone. If you are receiving qualifying benefits, the payment may be made automatically. However, if you’re not on those benefits, you may need to apply through your local council.
3. What are the payment dates for the £250 support?
The payments will be issued between June 24 and July 5, 2025, depending on the benefit type and the agency disbursing it.
4. Will this support affect my existing benefits?
No. The £250 payment is non-taxable and does not impact your other benefits. It is a separate, one-time support measure.
5. How do I apply if I don’t receive benefits automatically?
Contact your local council. They will guide you on the application process, eligibility rules in your area, and any deadlines.
