The first cost of living payment has gone out to millions across the country over the last few weeks. A £301 payment was issued by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) for benefit claimants while Tax Credit claimants were paid by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC).
The amount is the first of a series of payments totalling £900 provided by the government to help the most vulnerable households better cope with the cost of living crisis, reports ManchesterEveningNews. The deadline for the first round of payments across the country was May 17.
This means millions can now look forward to the next two instalments to be made throughout 2024/23. If you haven't received the £301 payment but were expecting it, contact the office responsible for your benefit payments as soon as possible.
DWP secretary Mel Stride said: “These direct payments will help people right across the UK over this year and the start of the next, as we continue to provide consistent, targeted and substantial support for the most vulnerable.”
With the first payment out of the way, many may be wondering when the next two payments will be made so they can adjust their finances accordingly. The government confirmed if you’re entitled, you will get:
- £301 paid between 25 April 2023 and 17 May 2023 for most people on DWP benefits
- £301 paid between 2 and 9 May 2023 for most people on tax credits and no other low income benefits
- £300 paid during autumn 2023 for most people
- £299 paid during spring 2024 for most people
Those eligible for the second and third payments will likely have to have received a benefit or Tax Credit payment during a qualifying period, however, this qualifying period has not yet been confirmed for the upcoming payments.
