Almost eight million people have now received the first instalment of the £650 means-tested payment for £326, with a further one million people on Tax Credits due to get the money next month.
Earlier this week, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) confirmed around six million people claiming disability benefits will also see one-off payments for £150 land in their bank accounts from September 20.
However, DWP is warning people expecting either of these payments, or the second part of the £650 support for £324 due in the autumn, to watch out for scammers trying to take advantage of the cost of living crisis.
READ MORE: Child Benefit warning as payments for some could stop next week
An estimated eight million pensioner households are also set to receive a £300 top-up added to their Winter Fuel Payments in November and December, which could also make them a target for fraudsters, the Daily Record reports.
A tweet from the DWP's official account is reminding people that if you are eligible for a cost of living payment:
- You do not need to apply for the payment
- You do not need to call DWP
- Payment to you is automatic
- DWP will never ask for personal details by SMS or email
The social media warning reiterates the guidance on the official Cost of Living Payments page on Gov.uk
The guidance states: “You may be able to get a payment to help with the cost of living if you’re getting certain benefits or Tax Credits. You do not need to apply. You’ll be paid automatically. If you have had a message asking you to apply or contact someone about the payment, this might be a scam.”
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