With the rising cost of living affecting millions across the UK, many people are wondering whether the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will provide another £299 support payment in April 2025. The last such payment was issued in February 2024 as part of a government initiative to assist low-income households. But will there be another round of financial aid this year? Here’s what we know so far.
Is a £299 Payment Coming in April 2025?
As of March 28, 2025, the DWP has not confirmed another £299 Cost of Living Payment for April. The most recent payment—given between February 6 and February 22, 2024—was the final installment of a three-part support package aimed at households receiving means-tested benefits such as Universal Credit, Pension Credit, and Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA).
What Financial Support Is Confirmed for April 2025?
While a new £299 payment hasn’t been announced, there are other financial changes coming into effect in April that could provide some relief:
| Support Measure | Details |
|---|---|
| Benefit Increases | Universal Credit (UC), Personal Independence Payment (PIP), and Disability Living Allowance (DLA) will rise by 1.7% |
| State Pension Increase | The triple lock guarantee will result in a 4.1% increase in State Pension payments |
| Universal Credit Deduction Cap | Maximum deductions for advance payments and overpayments will be lowered from 25% to 15% of the standard allowance |
| Local Support Funds | Some councils may continue offering aid through Household Support Funds, though availability varies by region |
Why Are People Expecting Another £299 Payment?
The speculation stems from the previous series of Cost of Living Payments, which provided direct financial aid in response to high inflation and rising living costs. In 2023-24, eligible recipients received three payments:
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£301 (Spring 2023)
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£300 (Autumn 2023)
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£299 (Winter 2024)
Since financial challenges persist, many charities, MPs, and advocacy groups are pushing for the government to introduce new direct payments for struggling households.
What’s Changing in April 2025 Instead?
Even if another £299 payment isn’t announced, there are still several policy updates that could help ease financial pressures:
1.7% Increase in Benefits
From April, key benefits such as Universal Credit (UC), Personal Independence Payment (PIP), and Disability Living Allowance (DLA) will increase by 1.7% in line with inflation.
For example, if someone currently receives £800 per month in Universal Credit, their new payment will rise by approximately £13.60.
State Pension Rises by 4.1%
Thanks to the triple lock policy, the State Pension will increase by 4.1%, meaning retirees will see an additional £60 to £80 per month, depending on their current pension amount.
Lower Universal Credit Deductions
The government is reducing the maximum Universal Credit deduction cap from 25% to 15%, allowing recipients to keep more of their benefits. This change is expected to benefit approximately 1 million low-income households.
Is Another Cost of Living Payment Still Possible?
While nothing has been confirmed, the government has previously introduced emergency financial aid when economic conditions worsened. If inflation spikes or energy costs rise sharply, new measures—possibly including another Cost of Living Payment—could be announced.
For now, there is no official plan for a new £299 payment in April 2025, but it’s important to stay updated through official government sources.
What Can You Do in the Meantime?
If you’re struggling financially, here are some steps you can take while waiting for further announcements:
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Check Your Benefit Eligibility – Use online tools like Turn2us or EntitledTo to see if you qualify for additional support.
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Monitor DWP Updates – Regularly check gov.uk or follow government announcements regarding financial assistance.
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Seek Local Aid – Your local council may offer food vouchers, housing support, or crisis grants through the Household Support Fund.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Will the DWP send a £299 payment in April 2025?
No official announcement has been made regarding a new £299 Cost of Living Payment for April 2025.
What confirmed financial changes are happening in April 2025?
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Universal Credit, PIP, and DLA will increase by 1.7%
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State Pension will rise by 4.1%
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Universal Credit repayment deductions will be reduced
Will the Household Support Fund continue?
Some councils may still provide aid through the Household Support Fund, but availability depends on local government funding.
Where can I find official updates?
Visit the DWP’s official website (gov.uk) or check government press releases for the latest information.
For now, while a new £299 payment isn’t confirmed, changes in benefits, pensions, and Universal Credit deductions may provide some financial relief in April 2025. Stay informed and explore all available support options to help manage rising living costs.