UK £90 Cost of Living Payment 2025: The pace at which the cost of living has increased in the UK in the last few years has had a profound impact on the financial situation of ordinary citizens. Basic expenses such as energy bills, rent, food and transport are constantly increasing, making it challenging for the middle class and low-income people to maintain a normal life. Understanding this socio-economic crisis, the government has announced a new scheme in the year 2025—the £90 Cost of Living Payment. This payment targets citizens who are already receiving benefits under Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Income Support or other support programs. Its purpose is to provide some relief to millions of families reeling under the pressure of inflation and to ensure that the most vulnerable sections do not feel alone. It is certainly a small amount, but any kind of help becomes a big support in difficult times.
What is the £90 Cost of Living Payment and why is it important?
This payment announced by the government is a one-time financial assistance, which will be transferred directly to the bank account of eligible beneficiaries. This amount is not taxable and will not affect any other government benefits. It is being seen as part of the UK government’s comprehensive social security framework, which has previously provided relief schemes such as £150, £300 and £900. This payment is not a permanent solution but is intended to provide immediate relief to families who are struggling to meet their daily expenses. The government understands that rising inflation affects families with limited incomes more, especially those who are sick, disabled or elderly. Therefore, this payment of £90 may seem small, but its importance is immense as it sends a message that the government is not oblivious to the suffering of the public.
Who is eligible under this scheme?
This scheme is not for everyone but has been specially designed keeping in mind those who are already benefiting under income-based assistance programs run by the government. The first people to be covered under this are those receiving Universal Credit. If you have received Universal Credit in a specified assessment period, you will be automatically eligible for this scheme. In addition, those receiving Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA), i.e., those who are receiving unemployment allowance and are dependent on government assistance due to low income, will also be considered eligible for this payment. Also, Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), especially for those who are on income-based ESA and cannot work due to any illness or disability, also comes in this list.
In addition, senior citizens receiving Pension Credit, keeping the elderly in mind, have also been included in this scheme. This will work as a relief for many pensioners who live alone or whose income is very low. Also, those people receiving Income Support who are not unemployed but are not able to get regular income for any reason will also get the benefit of this payment. Finally, people who are on disability benefits or are part of one of the other income-based benefit schemes mentioned above may also receive the £90 payment.
When and how will the payment be made?
The government has not yet announced exact dates, but it is expected that the payment will be made in the second half of 2025, between July and September. The payment will be made as you are already registered for your existing government benefit, i.e., straight into your bank account. No application is required. Eligibility will be determined and funds sent, based on the information already held by the government. You will be able to recognize the payment when it arrives in your account by the words “DWP COL” or a similar indicator on your bank statement.
How to check eligibility or know if you need to apply?
As this payment will be sent automatically in most cases, you will not usually need to make an application. However, if you want to make sure you are eligible, there are some simple steps you can take. First, log into your Universal Credit or pension account by visiting the government’s official website, www.gov.uk. You can access benefits information through your Government Gateway account. If you see a notification or message about the Cost of Living Payment in your account, it means you are eligible and will receive a payment soon. If not, you can contact the DWP (Department for Work and Pensions) or your local Jobcentre Plus.
What to do if you haven’t received a payment?
Sometimes payments can be delayed due to technical reasons, incorrect bank information, or recent benefit changes. If you haven’t received a payment within the expected timeframe, the first thing to do is check your bank account and the government benefits portal. If you still don’t see a payment, contact the DWP and check whether you were receiving eligible benefits at the time the eligibility assessment was carried out. If yes, you should get your documents and registration verified. Apart from this, help can also be taken by contacting your local Citizen Help Center or Citizen’s Advice Bureau.
Why does this matter?
Today, when inflation is constantly setting new records, the help given by the government is very important. Every little bit of help is very important in itself. A payment of £90, while not very big, shows that the government is listening to those who are most affected. This payment can be a week’s groceries for some, an electricity bill for some, and medicine costs for some. At a time when people are spending cautiously even on their basic needs, this payment is a real relief.
Conclusion: It is not just an amount; it is the government’s commitment.
The £90 Cost of Living Payment 2025 announced by the UK government is an effort that shows that the government is taking the problems of the economically weaker sections seriously. The best part of this scheme is that there is no complexity in it—no need to apply, no long wait. Eligible people will automatically get the benefit of this scheme, and those who have not been able to avail the benefit yet should also keep their information updated so that they do not miss out on any scheme in the future.
Ultimately, this scheme is not just a sum of money; it is a symbol of the government’s social responsibility. It is a reminder that no matter how hard the odds, the most vulnerable sections of society will not be left alone.
FAQs
Q. Who is eligible for the £90 Cost of Living Payment?
A. Individuals receiving certain means-tested benefits like Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Income Support, and others during the qualifying period.
Q. Do I need to apply to get the £90 payment?
A. No, the payment is automatic for eligible recipients. There is no need to apply separately.
Q. When will the £90 payment be made?
A. Payments are expected in the second half of 2025, likely between late summer and early autumn.
Q. Will the £90 payment affect my other benefits or taxes?
A. No, the payment is non-taxable and does not affect other benefits.
Q. What should I do if I didn’t receive the payment?
A. Check your benefit account or bank statement. If missing, contact DWP or your local Jobcentre for assistance.
