Second £300 UK Payout Approved

Second £300 UK Payout Approved: As the ongoing cost of living crisis continues to impact millions of households across the United Kingdom, the government has taken an additional step to ease financial pressure. A second £300 Cost of Living Payment has been officially approved for 2025, bringing much-needed relief to low-income individuals and families. With utility prices still high and food inflation outpacing wages, this payment is a vital support measure for vulnerable households.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about this upcoming benefit. Whether you’re wondering who qualifies, when payments are expected, or what to do if your payment doesn’t arrive, we’ve got you covered. We’ll also highlight additional local support schemes, offer tips to maximize your eligibility, and share resources to stay informed.

Detail	Information	Source / Link
Payment Amount	£300 (Second installment for 2025)	GOV.UK
Payment Window	Expected May to June 2025	GOV.UK
Eligibility Benefits	Universal Credit, Income-based JSA, ESA, Pension Credit, Tax Credits	CAP UK
Last Payment Amount	£299 distributed between 6 and 22 February 2024	Colitco
Application Needed?	No – Paid automatically to eligible recipients	GOV.UK
Additional Support Available?	Yes, through Household Support Fund (HSF) via local councils	The Sun

The second £300 Cost of Living Payment for 2025 provides timely relief for those facing the UK’s ever-rising living expenses. While the payment isn’t a long-term fix, it can be a meaningful bridge for many households as they navigate financial challenges. From rising utility bills to food prices, every pound counts.

Make sure you’re eligible, keep your records updated, and explore local options such as the Household Support Fund for additional aid. Stay proactive, informed, and connected to ensure you get the help you’re entitled to.

What Is the £300 Cost of Living Payment?

The £300 Cost of Living Payment is part of a broader economic response by the UK government aimed at supporting the most financially vulnerable citizens. As prices remain high for everyday essentials like fuel, rent, and groceries, the payment provides a short-term cushion to those already struggling.

These payments are:

Non-taxable
Not counted toward the benefit cap
Do not impact eligibility for existing benefits

This £300 installment follows the pattern of previous payments (£301, £300, £299) issued between April 2023 and February 2024. The new payment is targeted at those receiving means-tested benefits, as determined by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) or HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC).

Who Is Eligible?

To qualify for the second £300 payment in 2025, you must be receiving at least one of the following means-tested benefits during a qualifying period (exact dates yet to be confirmed):

Universal Credit
Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
Income Support
Pension Credit
Working Tax Credit
Child Tax Credit

Note: You will not be eligible if you receive only:
New Style Jobseeker’s Allowance
New Style Employment and Support Allowance
Contribution-based ESA

Unless you also receive one of the listed means-tested benefits, you won’t qualify for the £300 payout.

Payment Timeline & Delivery Method

The second £300 payment is expected to roll out between late May and mid-June 2025, though the exact dates will be confirmed by DWP and HMRC in the coming months.

Payments will be made automatically, so no application is required. Eligible recipients will see the payment deposited into the same bank account used for their benefits.

What Will the Payment Reference Look Like?

DWP recipients: Payment reference may appear as “DWP COL”
HMRC recipients: Payment reference may appear as “HMRC COL”

Check Eligibility and Prepare in Advance

To ensure a smooth payment experience, take these proactive steps:

1. Confirm Your Benefits Status

Double-check that you’re receiving one of the qualifying benefits. If you’ve recently applied, verify whether your application will be approved before the qualifying deadline.

2. Update Bank and Contact Details

Ensure your information with DWP or HMRC is accurate. Delays often occur due to outdated or incorrect details.

3. Monitor Government Communications

Keep an eye on:

Universal Credit journal messages
DWP letters and emails
HMRC online account notifications

4. Report Missing Payments

If your payment doesn’t arrive within the official window, report the issue via GOV.UK.

What If You’re Not Eligible? Alternative Support Options

Even if you don’t qualify for the £300 payment, there are still several ways to access support.

The Household Support Fund (HSF)

The Household Support Fund is distributed by local councils and is designed to assist households with urgent needs. Support includes help with:

Energy bills
Rent or mortgage payments
Food expenses
School uniforms or appliances

Example: Blackpool Council

Residents in Blackpool with larger households (3+ members) can apply for a £300 cash grant to help with utility bills. Programs like this are replicated across the UK with local variations.