With energy prices staying high and inflation squeezing household budgets, the UK government is delivering another round of financial support. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that millions of low-income households will receive a Cost of Living Payment this October.
This support is part of the government’s broader plan to help vulnerable groups manage the pressure of rising costs heading into winter.
Let’s look at what’s been announced, who qualifies, and what to watch for.
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Payment Window: October 7 to October 18, 2025
The October 2025 Cost of Living Payment will be distributed between October 7 and October 18, with no need to apply. Payments will be deposited automatically into eligible recipients’ bank accounts.
If you haven’t received the payment by October 21, the DWP recommends waiting five full working days before contacting them.
Who Qualifies for the October 2025 Payment?
To be eligible, you must have been receiving one or more of the following means-tested benefits during the qualifying period (exact eligibility dates are expected to be confirmed in early September):
| Eligible Benefits |
|---|
| Universal Credit |
| Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) |
| Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) |
| Income Support |
| Pension Credit |
| Working Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit (via HMRC) |
Important: If you receive only contribution-based JSA or ESA, or New Style ESA, you won’t qualify for this payment unless you also get a qualifying income-based benefit.
How Will the Payment Appear?
Look for a transaction in your bank account labeled:
“DWP COL” followed by your National Insurance number (e.g., DWP COL JQ123456C). This is your official Cost of Living Payment, separate from your regular benefits.
Beware of Scams
Unfortunately, these government payments often attract scammers. Be cautious of:
- Text messages or emails asking for personal or banking information
- Phone calls claiming you need to “confirm” your eligibility
- Social media posts directing you to unofficial websites
DWP will never ask for personal information via text, email, or phone. If in doubt, contact them through official channels or report scams to Action Fraud.
Additional Winter Support
This October payment is part of a seasonal support package, which may include:
| Other Programs to Watch For | Eligibility/Timing |
|---|---|
| Winter Fuel Payment | Pensioners; paid automatically Nov–Dec |
| Cold Weather Payment | Certain benefits; paid during severe cold |
| Warm Home Discount | Applies as credit on energy bills |
These programs offer layered support to help low-income households manage heating costs during the cold months.
The October 2025 Cost of Living Payment offers timely relief to millions of households, ensuring additional support as winter approaches. Payments will arrive automatically, but it’s still important to monitor your bank account, confirm eligibility, and stay alert to fraud.
FAQs
When will the October 2025 Cost of Living Payment be issued?
Between October 7 and October 18, 2025.
Do I need to apply?
No. Eligible payments are made automatically based on your benefit status.
What benefits make me eligible?
Universal Credit, Pension Credit, income-based ESA/JSA, Income Support, or Tax Credits.
