Cost of Living Payments

From the section: Crisis Payments

In this section:

Cost of Living Payments

You may be able to get financial help if you claim certain benefits or tax credits. If you’re eligible, payments will be made automatically.

You do not need to apply. If you’re eligible, you’ll be paid automatically in the same way you usually get your benefit or tax credits. This includes if you’re found to be eligible at a later date.

If you have had a message asking you to apply or contact someone about the payment, this might be a scam.

These payments are not taxable and will not affect the benefits or tax credits you get.

You can use our benefits calculator to work out what you could get.

Use our benefits calculator

Short term advances

If you’ve recently applied for benefits, such as Universal Credit or Jobseeker’s Allowance and you’re in urgent financial need, you may be able to get an advance on your first benefit payment.

You usually pay this back through your benefits. You do not have to pay interest.

For more information including how to apply, visit GOV.UK.