The Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) absolutely announces that it does not intend to do more living expenses.
The cost of living was discontinued last year, with the last part of the grant issued in February 2024. But one wonders if it could make a comeback given the rise in bills and financial stress.
How much is the cost of living?
Between 2022 and 2024, low-income families receive a series of one-time living expenses to help increase energy bills and inflation.
For example, retiree families are entitled to pay £150 or £300 for winter fuel payments.
About 8 million families received £900 of living expenses, divided into three phases.
What financial support can I access?
Low-income families will still receive financial support through the government’s Family Support Fund (HSF), which has extended the Labor government until March next year with an additional £742 million.
The HSF is distributed by local councils, which decides how to allocate funds. Parliament also provides cash grants and energy bill assistance. Residents should check their local council’s eligibility criteria and application windows.
Despite the update, those claiming universal credit expect an additional £150 over the 2025 period. Living allowance for persons with disabilities, caregivers allowance and child benefits are also set to increase the same amount.
Prime Minister Rachel Reeves said: “With the increase in workers’ welfare today, our Tyck promises to pensioners through the triple lock, we are making decisions to support those who need it in the UK, putting money into people’s pockets and providing our plans for change.”
Fair repayment rates are also changing, which pays back what they owed for people to pay their debts.
Previously, the maximum amount that could be deducted from a person’s standard universal credit allowance was 25%, but the maximum amount had been reduced to 15%, which would average an additional £420 in the pockets of some households.
