With inflation driving up the cost of food, rent, energy, and daily essentials, the UK government has introduced another round of financial relief — the Extra Cost of Living Payment for 2025.
This initiative aims to help low-income households, pensioners, and people on disability benefits manage the financial strain caused by rising prices.
Scheduled for disbursement in November 2025, this one-off £605 payment is automatically granted to eligible recipients through the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
Here’s everything you need to know about this important support payment, who qualifies, how it’s paid, and what to do if you don’t receive it.
Cost of Living Payment
The Cost of Living Payment is a financial support scheme offered by the UK government to help people cope with increased living expenses.
It specifically targets those on income-related benefits and disability support to ease the burden of essentials like groceries, utility bills, rent, and transport.
For the 2025 financial year, the government scheduled three payments under this scheme, totalling £900. The upcoming £605 installment is the second major disbursement, set for November 2025.
Payment Breakdown
Here’s a quick look at how the Extra Cost of Living Payment for 2025 is structured:
Category | Details |
---|---|
Payment Name | Extra Cost of Living Payment 2025 |
Country | United Kingdom |
Administering Organisation | Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) |
Total Payment Amount | £605 |
Expected Payment Date | November 2025 |
Eligibility | Low-income households, pensioners, disability benefit recipients |
Who Qualifies?
You’ll automatically qualify for the Extra Cost of Living Payment if you’re receiving any of the following benefits:
- Universal Credit
- Pension Credit
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Income Support
- Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
If you are already on one or more of these benefits, there’s no need to apply separately. The DWP will automatically send the £605 payment to your registered bank account in November 2025.
Payment
The Extra Cost of Living Payment will be transferred directly into eligible recipients’ bank accounts through the Bankers’ Automated Clearing Services (BACS) system. This ensures a secure and efficient transaction process.
Payment Date
- November 2025
The exact date may differ slightly based on your benefit type and bank processing times. It’s recommended to check your bank account regularly during the expected payment period.
What to Do If You Don’t Receive
If you believe you qualify for the payment but haven’t received it after the expected date:
- Check your bank account — review your recent transactions to confirm it hasn’t arrived.
- Verify eligibility — double-check that you’re receiving a qualifying benefit.
- Contact the DWP — if you’ve waited a few working days and still haven’t received the payment, contact the DWP through their official channels.
- Use the online reporting tool — the government provides a portal for reporting missing or delayed payments once the official payment window has closed.
Why This Payment Matters
With everyday essentials like food, rent, electricity, and medical services costing more, this £605 Extra Cost of Living Payment is a much-needed financial boost for millions of UK residents.
It not only helps individuals meet immediate household expenses but also forms part of a broader government plan to ease economic pressure on vulnerable groups.
For pensioners, low-income families, and disabled individuals already navigating tight budgets, this extra support can make a significant difference.
FAQs
When is the £605 payment scheduled?
The Extra Cost of Living Payment is due in November 2025.
Do I need to apply for the COL Payment?
No application needed — payments are sent automatically.
Who qualifies for the £605 payment?
Anyone on Universal Credit, PIP, DLA, JSA, or Pension Credit.
How will I receive the payment?
It’s sent directly to your bank account via BACS.
What if my payment is delayed?
Wait a few days, then contact DWP or use their online tool.