The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced a new payment worth £780 to support millions of people across the UK who are struggling with the ongoing cost of living crisis. This financial boost is part of the government’s effort to provide extra help to low-income households, especially during a time when food, energy, and basic necessities continue to get more expensive.
If you live in the UK and rely on certain benefits, this one-off payment could be coming your way. But not everyone will qualify—so it’s important to understand who’s eligible, when the payment will be made, and how you can receive it.
What Is the £780 DWP Payment?
This payment is a cost of living support grant designed to help people on low incomes. The £780 amount is not a lump sum sent at once. Instead, it’s likely to be split into smaller installments paid throughout the financial year—just like the previous cost of living payments that were rolled out in 2022, 2023, and 2024.
The idea is to help people manage rising bills and household costs gradually over time, rather than all at once.
Who Is Eligible for This Payment?
To get the £780 payment, you must be receiving one of the qualifying benefits during a certain “qualifying period” (usually a specific date range decided by DWP). These benefits include:
- Universal Credit
- Pension Credit
- Income Support
- Jobseeker’s Allowance (income-based)
- Employment and Support Allowance (income-related)
- Working Tax Credit
- Child Tax Credit
If you’re receiving any of the above benefits—especially income-based ones—you are very likely to be considered for this payment.
Important: People receiving contribution-based Jobseeker’s Allowance or Employment Support Allowance on their own (without the income-based part) may not qualify.
When Will the £780 Be Paid?
Although the government hasn’t given exact dates yet, payments are expected to begin sometime in Autumn 2025, followed by additional instalments in early 2026.
If we look at how payments were rolled out in previous years, we can expect something similar—perhaps split into three payments of £260 each, or smaller chunks spread out over a few months.
The DWP will confirm payment dates closer to the time, and you won’t need to apply. If you’re eligible, the money will be sent directly to your bank account using the same details they already have for your existing benefit payments.
How Will You Know If You’re Getting It?
You don’t need to fill out any forms or call any helpline. The DWP will automatically check if you qualify based on the benefits you receive. If you’re eligible, you’ll get a notification letter or text before the payment is made.
Make sure your bank details and contact information are up to date with HMRC and the DWP to avoid delays.
What If You Recently Applied for Benefits?
If you have recently started receiving any of the qualifying benefits, or are still waiting for approval, there’s still a chance you could be eligible. Payments are usually based on whether you were receiving benefits during the specific qualifying period, which is yet to be announced.
So, keep an eye on updates from the DWP, especially if your benefit claim was processed recently.
Extra Support Available
In addition to the £780 payment, some people may be able to get extra help from their local councils, such as emergency grants through the Household Support Fund. This fund is managed at the local level and can provide things like food vouchers, utility bill support, and help with essential items.
You can contact your local council to find out what support is available in your area.
Final Thoughts
The £780 payment is part of the UK government’s wider plan to help households facing financial stress. With inflation still high and energy bills causing concern, this support comes as a much-needed relief.
If you’re already receiving benefits, there’s a strong chance you’ll qualify. Stay informed by regularly checking updates from the DWP, and make sure all your information is current.
Grant Wilkinson is a content editor at The Landscape Insight, where he helps to produce engaging and informative articles about the industry. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for quality, Grant works closely with a team of writers and designers to bring the latest news and insights to readers. You can reach Grant at – Grant@landscapeinsight.com or on Our website Contact Us Page.
