£299 Cost of Living Payment: In early 2024, many UK households felt a sense of relief when they received the final £299 Cost of Living Payment—the last part of a £900 support package designed to help low-income families cope with high bills and inflation. Now, as April 2025 approaches, a pressing question is on everyone’s mind: Will the government issue another £299 payment this year?
This article breaks down everything you need to know about the payment’s status, government support updates, alternatives available, and practical steps to prepare—whether another round is announced or not.
£299 Cost of Living Payment
The £299 Cost of Living Payment was part of a three-part support scheme rolled out from 2023 to 2024 for individuals receiving means-tested benefits. It aimed to help people cover essential expenses during a period of high inflation and energy costs. The full package included:
| Installment | Amount | Date Issued |
| 1st | £301 | Spring 2023 |
| 2nd | £300 | Autumn 2023 |
| 3rd | £299 | February 2024 |
This payment was non-taxable, did not require an application, and had no impact on other benefits. Eligible recipients included those on Universal Credit, Pension Credit, income-based JSA and ESA, Income Support, and Tax Credits.
Overview Table: Cost of Living Support Overview – 2024 to 2025
| Topic | Details |
| Last £299 Payment Issued | February 2024 |
| New £299 Payment in April 2025? | Not confirmed as of April 2025 |
| Potential Influencers | 2025 General Election, inflation rates, energy prices |
| Household Support Fund (HSF) | Extended to March 2026 |
| Universal Credit Increase | 1.7% from April 2025 |
| State Pension Increase | 4.1% from April 2025 |
| Winter Fuel & Cold Weather Payments | Still available for qualifying individuals |
Is the £299 Payment Coming Back in April 2025?
As of now, the UK government has not confirmed any new £299 Cost of Living Payment for April 2025. However, several factors may influence whether similar payments are announced later this year:
1. General Election Impact
The upcoming general election in 2025 could influence whether further financial support is introduced. Political parties might include cost-of-living aid in their manifestos to appeal to low-income voters. Depending on the results, new announcements could follow.
2. Inflation & Economic Conditions
While inflation has cooled compared to 2022–2023 levels, any future surge in energy prices or household expenses could pressure the government to roll out another round of payments.
Household Support Fund Extended
Even if the £299 payment isn’t repeated, there’s some good news: the Household Support Fund (HSF) has been extended until March 2026. This local council-administered fund offers targeted help to those facing financial hardship.
What can it cover?
- Emergency food vouchers
- Help with electricity, gas, or water bills
- Cash support for urgent personal needs
You don’t need to be on benefits to apply. Low-income earners, pensioners, and people with unexpected costs (like broken appliances or medical expenses) may qualify.
How to apply:
- Visit your local council’s website
- Search for “Household Support Fund” or “local welfare assistance”
- Fill out the application form and provide proof of need
Benefit & Pension Increases from April 2025
From April 2025, several core benefits and pensions are set to rise:
| Benefit Type | Expected Increase |
| Universal Credit | +1.7% |
| Other Means-Tested Benefits | +1.7% |
| State Pension | +4.1% (Triple Lock) |
These adjustments aim to help households meet the rising cost of essential goods and services.
Alternative Support Options in April 2025
Even without a new £299 Cost of Living Payment, several other schemes continue to support households:
1. Local Welfare Schemes
Councils across the UK operate their own support programmes, often covering:
- Supermarket or food bank vouchers
- Help with rent or utilities
- School uniform or clothing grants
2. Winter Fuel Payments
If you were born before 25 September 1957, you may qualify for a Winter Fuel Payment of £250 to £600, depending on your situation.
3. Cold Weather Payments
If temperatures fall below 0°C for 7 consecutive days, qualifying individuals may receive £25 per week.
4. Energy Bill Help
Though energy costs remain high, the Energy Price Cap continues to protect consumers. Additionally, some suppliers offer hardship grants for those struggling to pay their bills.
5. Budgeting Advances
If you’re on Universal Credit, you may be eligible for a Budgeting Advance to cover emergency costs like:
- Appliance replacements
- Work-related travel
- Moving expenses
This loan is repaid through future Universal Credit deductions.
Tips to Prepare If the £299 Payment Doesn’t Return
If no further £299 Cost of Living Payment is announced, these steps can help you stay financially prepared:
1. Check Your Benefit Entitlements
Many people are missing out on support simply because they haven’t applied. Use a government-approved benefits calculator to see what you qualify for.
2. Use Budgeting Tools
Track your spending with tools like the MoneyHelper Budget Planner or free budgeting apps. Cancel unused subscriptions and review recurring charges.
3. Explore Charitable Grants
Charities like:
- Turn2us
- Citizens Advice
- StepChange
…can help with emergency grants, debt advice, and budgeting support.
What Are Experts Saying?
Policy analysts suggest that the government may shift away from universal payments like the £299 Cost of Living Payment. Instead, the focus could move toward targeted support through local councils and means-tested increases.
However, experts also note that if living costs rise sharply again—especially with energy or housing—there may still be political pressure to reintroduce direct payments, particularly as a short-term fix before the general election.
FAQs
1. Is the £299 payment confirmed for April 2025?
No. As of now, there are no confirmed plans to issue another £299 payment in April 2025.
2. Can I still get support if I don’t receive benefits?
Yes. You may qualify for Household Support Fund help, even if you’re a low-income worker or facing sudden financial hardship.
3. Will my pension increase in 2025?
Yes. The State Pension is expected to rise by 4.1%, following the triple lock policy.
4. What energy support is available?
You may be eligible for Winter Fuel Payments, Cold Weather Payments, or hardship funds from your energy provider.
Final Thought
While there is no confirmation yet of another £299 Cost of Living Payment in April 2025, the UK government continues to offer support through other programmes like the Household Support Fund, benefit increases, and local council schemes.
If you’re struggling with day-to-day expenses, it’s worth checking what you might be eligible for and staying updated with future announcements. Whether you’re on benefits or working on a low income, help is available—you just need to know where to look.
For the latest updates, check the gov.uk website or speak to your local council. And if you found this article helpful, share it with others who might need financial support in 2025.
