The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued an update on how many cost of living payments have been made so far.
Eligible claimants will receive the £301 instalment automatically into their bank accounts between Tuesday April 25 and Wednesday May 17. It is the first of three payments which will be spread out across 2023/24, equating to £900.
If you are yet to receive the payment then don't worry. The DWP previously said that not all payments will be made on the same day and you should expect to see the cash by Wednesday, May 17 at the latest.
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Today (Wednesday April 26) it confirmed that a total of 3.2 million payments had already been processed. More than eight million households will receive the money.
If you only receive Tax Credits from HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) then you will be paid at a later date compared to those receiving the Cost of Living payment from the DWP.
The Cost of Living Payment will be made available to those who are receiving payments from means-tested benefits such as: Jobseeker’s Allowance, Income Support, and Universal Credit. Claimants must also have received a payment from one of the qualifying benefits during the qualifying period - between January 26, 2023 and February 25, 2023.
Furthermore, you will not be considered eligible if your benefit is reduced to £0 during the qualifying period - this is known as a 'nil reward' and can happen for a variety of reasons. However, the DWP has clarified that if you receive a nil reward because money has been taken off you for something like rent or debt, you may still be considered eligible.
The government department has also clarified that you will not be considered eligible if you only claim New Style Employment and Support Allowance, contributory Employment and Support Allowance, or New Style Jobseeker's Allowance.
Another payment of £300 will arrive in the autumn, while a third and final payment of £299 will be paid during spring 2024.
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