The first of the government’s three cost of living payments for 2023/4 are being paid now – but more than three million people have yet to receive it.
More than 1,600,000 households received the payment yesterday – the first of three this year – joining the 4,800,000 who were sent it this month ‘to help with rising costs’, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) said.
The £301 instalment is the first of three cost of living payments which will total £900.
But with household bills and food prices still sky high, when will the millions who are still desperately waiting for the first £301 payment receive it?
Could the money arrive tomorrow (Saturday) or over the bank holiday weekend?
Here’s what you need to know.
Will the cost of living payment arrive on a Saturday?
Unfortunately, the cost of living payment will not arrive on a Saturday.
On Thursday afternoon, the department said no more £301 payments will be sent until next Tuesday (May 2).
Payments will not be made on Saturday, Sunday or on bank holiday Monday.
The DWP said: ‘If you’ve not received yours, don’t worry – payments will continue to be made up to May 17.
‘The next set of payments will be made on Tuesday, May 2, and we will update again when these have been made.’
When will I receive the payment?
According to the DWP, if you’re eligible and the first cost of living payment hasn’t landed in your bank account already, it could be any time until May 17, or from May 2 to May 9 if you are on tax credits and no other benefits.
You do not need to apply – those eligible should automatically receive the payment in their into bank or building society accounts.
The government warns that if you have had a message asking you to apply or contact someone about the payment, this might be a scam.
Future payments are expected in the autumn and then Spring 2024.
Who is eligible for the £301 cost of living payment?
People on certain benefits or tax credits may be eligible – but you won’t get it if you are only getting New Style ESA, contributory ESA, or New Style JSA.
Who is eligible for the Cost of Living payment?
Most people on these means-tested benefits can qualify for the cost-of-living boosts:
- Universal Credit
- Income-based Jobseekers Allowance
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Income Support
- Working Tax Credit
- Child Tax Credit
- Pension Credit
The qualifying period for this was between January 26 and February 25 – this involved either being entitled to one of the benefits or being paid for an assessment period ending between the dates.
The payments are not taxable and will not affect the benefits or tax credits you get.
MORE : Is the £301 cost of living payment being paid in alphabetical order?
MORE : I haven’t received my £301 cost of living payment – what do I do?
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