This August, millions of low-income households across the UK will receive a one-off £90 Cost of Living Payment from the government. Backed by the Household Support Fund (HSF), this financial support aims to ease the strain of rising living costs. Whether you’re receiving Universal Credit, managing a family on a budget, or supporting someone in need, this guide walks you through everything you need to know.
From who qualifies to how you’ll receive the payment, we’ve made it simple to know and act on. Let’s break it down.
Overview
The £90 payment may be modest, but for struggling families, it offers critical relief for daily essentials like groceries, utility bills, and household goods. It’s part of a broader government effort to help low-income households manage inflation and cost pressures.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | £90 one-off payment |
| Payment Date | August 2025 |
| Eligible Groups | Universal Credit, income-based JSA/ESA, Income Support, Pension Credit |
| Application Needed | No – payments are made automatically |
| How Paid | Bank transfer, cheque, or voucher depending on local council |
| Extra Support | Food vouchers, utility aid, white goods, emergency housing |
| Info Source | GOV.UK – Household Support Fund Guidance |
What Is the £90 Payment?
Funded by the Household Support Fund, the £90 payment helps cushion families hit hardest by the ongoing cost of living crisis. Since its launch in 2021, the fund has provided over £3.2 billion in support. The latest round includes £842 million, available until March 2026, and distributed through local councils.
This payment is one-time, meaning you won’t need to worry about ongoing eligibility, applications, or renewals—if you’re eligible, you’ll get it.
Who Will Get It?
You’ll automatically receive the payment if you’re on one of these means-tested benefits:
- Universal Credit
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Income Support
- Pension Credit
You won’t qualify if you’re only on contribution-based or “New Style” JSA/ESA unless you also receive income-based benefits.
How Will It Be Paid?
Payment methods vary by local authority and how your benefits are managed:
- Bank Transfer – Common for most DWP benefit recipients
- Cheque – For those without bank accounts on file
- Voucher – Issued by councils, often for use in supermarkets or local shops
No application is necessary. As long as your benefit status was active during the assessment period, you’ll receive the payment automatically.
What Is the Household Support Fund?
The Household Support Fund helps local councils deliver emergency financial help. While the £90 payment is part of this, your council may offer other kinds of support:
- Grocery or supermarket vouchers
- Energy bill help
- Essential appliances (like a cooker or fridge)
- Rent support
- Clothing, school uniforms, or bedding
Every council runs its own version of the HSF, so it’s worth checking what’s available in your area.
How to Check Your Status
Log into your Universal Credit or DWP account. Make sure you’re currently receiving one of the eligible benefits.
Check Your Bank Details
Ensure your bank information is current with the DWP. Outdated details can cause payment delays or failed transfers.
Watch for Notifications
Look for payments marked “DWP COL” or something similar in your bank statements between early and late August 2025.
Didn’t Get It?
Contact the DWP support line or speak to your local council. If there’s been a change in your benefit status, you may need to provide updated info or file a manual application for additional local help.
What If You Miss Out?
If you believe you were missed:
- Confirm your eligibility on GOV.UK
- Check if you were receiving benefits during the qualifying window
- Reach out to your local authority—they may offer separate help via HSF
- File an appeal or update your status if your financial situation changed recently
Financial Tips
Experts recommend using the payment wisely. Here are a few helpful tips:
- Prioritise essentials: food, energy, and rent should come first
- Use supermarket discounts, loyalty apps, and community pantries
- Apply for energy efficiency schemes to lower future bills
- Use budgeting tools like MoneyHelper or speak with Citizens Advice for free guidance
Even small one-off payments like this can make a meaningful difference when used strategically.
FAQs
When is the £90 payment being sent?
It will be distributed during August 2025.
Do I need to apply for the payment?
No, it will be paid automatically if you’re eligible.
Which benefits qualify me for the £90?
Universal Credit, Pension Credit, income-based JSA/ESA, Income Support.
How will I get the payment?
Through bank transfer, cheque, or voucher via your local council.
What if I didn’t receive the payment?
Check with the DWP or your local council to verify eligibility.
