The UK Government has confirmed a fresh round of financial relief under the UK Cost of Living Autumn Payment 2025, aimed at providing extra support for low-income households during the final quarter of the year. As living costs continue to surge, particularly for food and energy, this latest measure will benefit millions of residents struggling with day-to-day expenses.
This payment is part of the broader cost-of-living support package being delivered by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to help the most vulnerable navigate inflationary pressures. Scheduled for disbursement beginning October 2025, this support will arrive automatically for eligible individuals already receiving qualifying benefits.
The government’s decision to launch another seasonal installment reflects ongoing concerns about fuel poverty, food insecurity, and rising rent burdens in lower-income brackets.
What Is the UK Cost of Living Autumn Payment 2025?
The UK Cost of Living Autumn Payment 2025 is a one-off, tax-free financial assistance package targeting households that rely on means-tested benefits. The initiative extends the government’s commitment to offer extra support for low-income households who continue to bear the brunt of inflation.
Key highlights of the Autumn 2025 payment:
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A one-off payment of £300 for eligible recipients
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Distributed automatically via direct bank transfer
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No application required—eligibility determined by benefit records
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Intended to help cover food, fuel, and essential utility costs
This payment will be made separately from your regular benefit payments and will not affect your existing support entitlements.
Overview of Cost of Living Autumn Payment 2025
| Category of Support | Payment Amount | Eligibility Date Range | Payment Start Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Means-Tested Benefit Recipients | £300 | Benefits claimed between 18 Aug – 22 Sep 2025 | From 15 October 2025 |
| Pensioner Households | Additional £300 | Linked with Winter Fuel Payment | November 2025 |
| Disability Benefit Recipients | £150 (earlier payment in July) | N/A | Already disbursed |
This breakdown ensures that all aspects of the UK Cost of Living Autumn Payment 2025 are clearly communicated, especially for those unsure if they qualify.
Who Is Eligible for the £300 Autumn Payment?
To receive the UK Cost of Living Autumn Payment 2025, individuals must have been entitled to one of the following benefits between 18 August and 22 September 2025:
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Universal Credit
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Pension Credit
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Income Support
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Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
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Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
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Working Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit
People receiving only New Style ESA or JSA (contribution-based) will not be eligible unless they also receive one of the above qualifying benefits. The goal is to deliver extra support for low-income households whose income levels and living situations genuinely warrant emergency aid.
Households with a joint claim will receive a single £300 payment, and all eligible payments will be deposited automatically into the same account used for existing benefits.
How Will Payments Be Delivered and Tracked?
The DWP and HMRC will initiate the disbursements automatically. No action or form submission is required from the recipient. To help beneficiaries identify the payment, it will appear with the following reference:
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“DWP COL” or “HMRC COLS” in your bank transaction statement
Key points to remember:
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Make sure your bank details are up to date in your Universal Credit or HMRC account
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You do not need to reapply if you received previous cost-of-living payments
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If you believe you qualify but do not receive the payment, you can report a missing payment through GOV.UK beginning mid-November 2025
These measures aim to ensure that extra support for low-income households is distributed efficiently and without delay.
Conclusion
With the confirmation of the UK Cost of Living Autumn Payment 2025, the government is once again stepping up to address economic inequalities and ongoing inflation challenges. This installment of £300, while modest, represents critical assistance for households grappling with rising food, fuel, and utility bills. By providing extra support for low-income households, the DWP continues its mission to shield the most financially vulnerable from the harshest impacts of the cost-of-living crisis. Households are encouraged to check their benefit status and banking information to ensure smooth receipt of the payment this October.
FAQs
Who is eligible for the UK Cost of Living Autumn Payment 2025?
Anyone receiving qualifying benefits such as Universal Credit, Pension Credit, or Tax Credits between 18 August and 22 September 2025 is eligible.
How much will be paid under the Autumn 2025 support scheme?
Eligible households will receive a one-time payment of £300, separate from other benefit payments.
When will I receive the Autumn 2025 cost-of-living payment?
Payments are expected to begin from 15 October 2025, with some delays possible depending on the benefit type and provider.
Do I need to apply for the Autumn payment?
No application is required. The payment will be deposited automatically if you meet the eligibility criteria based on your benefit status.
Will this payment affect my other benefits or taxes?
No. The £300 Autumn payment is tax-free and does not affect any of your other benefits or payments.
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