With the rising cost of living continuing to strain UK households, many are searching for updates on new government support. Recently, claims have circulated online about a new £650 cost of living payment in 2025.
However, there has been no official announcement from the UK government confirming any such payment this year.
This blog sets the record straight, outlining the facts around the most recent support schemes, including the final confirmed payment of £299 issued in early 2024, and clarifies what to expect going forward.
Has the UK Government Announced a £650 Cost of Living Payment for 2025?
As of now, there is no official announcement from the UK Government or the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) about a new £650 cost of living payment for 2025.
While financial pressures remain high due to inflation and increased household costs, the government has not confirmed any further payments beyond those issued under the 2023–2024 Cost of Living Payment scheme.
The last confirmed payment, a £299 one-off cost of living paymen,t was distributed automatically between 6 February and 22 February 2024, marking the final instalment of the three-part series that began in April 2023.
What Was the Final Confirmed Cost of Living Payment?
The final cost of living support payment was part of the government’s previously announced support package for households receiving means-tested benefits. The timeline was as follows:
| Payment Amount | Date Issued | Eligible Group |
|---|---|---|
| £301 | April–May 2023 | Means-tested benefit claimants |
| £300 | October–November 2023 | Same group |
| £299 | February 2024 | Final payment in the series |
Each payment was non-taxable, did not require an application, and was made automatically to those receiving qualifying benefits.
Which Benefits Were Eligible for the 2023–2024 Payments?
The payments were targeted at individuals receiving the following means-tested benefits:
- Universal Credit
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Income Support
- Working Tax Credit
- Child Tax Credit
- Pension Credit
Recipients of non-means-tested benefits (such as Personal Independence Payment or State Pension) were supported under separate schemes like the Disability Cost of Living Payment or Winter Fuel Payment top-ups.
Why Is There Confusion Around a £650 Payment in 2025?
There has been no confirmed £650 payment announced for 2025. This figure may be circulating due to past government support schemes.
In 2022, the DWP issued a £650 cost of living payment split into two instalments. However, this was part of the 2022 support response and is not related to any new plan in 2025.
At present, no new cost of living payment has been declared or scheduled for the 2025–2026 financial year.
Should You Expect Another Cost of Living Payment in 2025?
The government has not ruled out future support but has not made any announcements. If new payments are introduced, they will likely:
- Be announced on GOV.UK
- Be automatically issued to eligible households
- Target means-tested benefit recipients
Households are encouraged to stay informed by checking official DWP updates and maintaining up-to-date contact and banking information with DWP or HMRC.
What Can Households Do in the Meantime?
Until any new support schemes are announced, households facing financial difficulty can consider:
- Contacting local councils for discretionary housing payments or crisis grants
- Exploring eligibility for Universal Credit or Pension Credit
- Accessing support from energy providers, local food banks, or debt charities like StepChange
Key Takeaway: No £650 Payment Confirmed for 2025
While speculation continues, the £299 payment issued in February 2024 remains the last confirmed cost of living payment. No new payment has been declared for 2025 as of July 2025.
For reliable updates, only trust official communications from:
- Department for Work and Pensions (DWP)
- HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC)
- GOV.UK announcements
Conclusion
While financial pressures remain high for many households, it’s important to rely on verified government sources when it comes to cost of living support.
As of now, the £299 payment in February 2024 was the last confirmed instalment under the UK’s multi-phase cost of living scheme.
There is no official £650 payment for 2025. Staying updated via GOV.UK and maintaining accurate benefit records will help ensure you’re informed of any future assistance the government may introduce.
FAQs
Has the UK Government announced a new cost of living payment for 2025?
No. The most recent and final confirmed payment was £299 in February 2024.
Is there a £650 cost of living payment this year?
No such payment has been announced for 2025.
Will there be more payments in the future?
The government has not ruled this out, but nothing has been confirmed.
Where can I check for official updates?
Visit GOV.UK or the DWP’s official channels.
Who received the last cost of living payment?
Households receiving means-tested benefits like Universal Credit, Tax Credits, or Pension Credit during the eligibility window.
