If you’re a parent in the UK, there’s a real chance you could receive up to £1,767 in financial support from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) in 2025. This amount includes a mix of Cost of Living Payments and additional benefits aimed at helping families get through rising living costs. The best part? Much of it is automatic if you already claim certain benefits.
Let’s break down exactly what support is available, how you qualify, and how to make sure you don’t miss out.
Table of Contents
Overview
The UK government’s Cost of Living support package continues in 2025, targeting low-income families and households with children. This includes three key payments totalling £900 and a variety of additional benefits that could push your total support past £1,767.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Potential Support | £1,767 or more per household |
| Payment Source | DWP Cost of Living Payments + other benefits |
| Eligibility | Based on qualifying means-tested benefits |
| Application Required | No, if you already claim eligible benefits |
| Payment Method | Direct to bank account (automated) |
Payment Breakdown
Here’s how the £900 Cost of Living support is scheduled to be split in 2025:
- £301 in Spring
- £300 in Summer or Autumn
- £299 in Winter
If you’re receiving qualifying benefits during the eligibility windows for each payment, you’ll get these automatically—no forms or applications needed.
Additional Benefits
On top of the £900, many parents can claim other financial support. These may include:
- Child Benefit
- £24 per week for your first child
- £15.90 per week for each additional child
- Totals over £1,248 annually for two kids
- Warm Home Discount
- A one-time £150 discount on your energy bill
- Healthy Start Vouchers
- Around £4.25 weekly per child under 4 or if you’re pregnant
- Free School Meals
- Provided to eligible children during term time and holidays
- Local Council Schemes
- Emergency help with essentials like food or heating through Local Welfare Assistance
It’s easy to see how these benefits stack up to—and even exceed—£1,767 in annual support for many UK families.
Eligibility
To qualify for the main £900 Cost of Living Payments, you must be receiving one of the following:
- Universal Credit
- Pension Credit
- Income-related ESA (Employment and Support Allowance)
- Income-based JSA (Jobseeker’s Allowance)
- Income Support
- Child Tax Credit
- Working Tax Credit
As long as you meet the qualifying dates set by the DWP for each instalment, the payments are automatic.
Check Your Status
Here’s a quick guide to ensure you’re in line to receive the full support:
- Log into your GOV.UK benefits account
- Verify you’re on a qualifying benefit
- Monitor your payment dates
- Report any changes in your personal or financial situation
- Keep track of benefit updates via the DWP website or official channels
Example Case
Let’s say Sarah, a single mum with two children, is receiving Universal Credit and Child Benefit. She also qualifies for the Warm Home Discount and receives Healthy Start vouchers.
Here’s her estimated support in 2025:
| Support Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cost of Living Payments | £900 |
| Child Benefit (2 kids) | £1,248 |
| Warm Home Discount | £150 |
| Healthy Start Vouchers | £100 approx. |
| Total Annual Support | £2,398 |
That’s well above the £1,767 mark—proving just how valuable this support can be.
Maximise The Help
If you’re a parent trying to manage rising costs, here are some quick wins to maximise your support:
- Keep your details current – Report changes in income, address, or bank info
- Use benefit calculators – Tools like EntitledTo or Turn2Us help find missed benefits
- Reach out locally – Councils often have extra support like uniform grants or food aid
- Stay organised – Keep records of awards, payment notices, and ID documents in one place
- Budget ahead – Use budgeting tools (like MoneyHelper) to plan for monthly costs
The key is to stay informed and proactive. You could be missing out on hundreds—or even thousands—of pounds of support.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the £900 Cost of Living Payments?
Anyone on eligible benefits like UC, Tax Credits, ESA, JSA or Pension Credit.
Do I need to apply for the £1,767 support?
No, payments are automatic if you’re on qualifying benefits.
When will the payments arrive in 2025?
Spring, Summer/Autumn, and Winter—exact dates TBA.
Can I get Child Benefit and Cost of Living Payments?
Yes, both can be claimed at the same time.
What should I do if I miss a payment?
Contact DWP or HMRC if you think you were eligible but didn’t receive it.
