Is There a Cost of Living Payment in 2026?

Short answer: no. The DWP Cost of Living Payments (the £301, £300 and £299 instalments) ran from 2022 to early 2024 and have ended — there are no new universal payments planned for 2026. But that doesn't mean there's no help. Here's what you can still get, and how to spot the scams that prey on people searching for this.

The honest answer

The cost-of-living instalment payments were a temporary scheme for people on certain benefits. The last one was paid in February 2024, and the Government has not announced new ones for 2026. If a website or text says a fresh "£" payment is landing, treat it with suspicion (see scams below).

What you CAN still get

• Warm Home Discount — £150 off your electricity bill in England and Wales if, on 23 August 2026, you or your partner got Universal Credit, Housing Benefit, income-related ESA or Pension Credit. See our guide →
• Crisis and Resilience Fund — help with bills, food, essentials and housing costs through your local council (it replaced the Household Support Fund in England). See our guide →
• Winter Fuel Payment — help with heating for eligible pensioners. See our guide →
• Cold Weather Payment — £25 for each very cold week if you're on a qualifying benefit.
• Pension Credit — worth around £4,300 a year and a gateway to other help; hugely under-claimed. See our guide →

The real move: check what you're owed

Far more goes unclaimed than most people realise — around £24 billion a year across Great Britain. Rather than wait for a one-off payment that isn't coming, it's worth checking the ongoing support you may already be entitled to.

Common questions

This guide is general information, not financial advice. Rules, rates and eligibility change and differ by country — always confirm the current details with the relevant official body before you act.

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