More than eight million people on eligible means-tested benefits are expected to receive the first part of the new Cost of Living payments for 2023. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) recently announced the payment schedule. However, it appears that not all Universal Credit claimants will qualify for the cast boost in the next wave of pay outs.
Cost of living support can be worth up to £1,350 over 2023/24 for those on a low-income, people claiming disability benefits and pensioner households, according to Nottinghamshire Live sister publication Daily Record. The figure takes into account £900 worth of Cost of Living payments, plus £300 winter fuel payment for pensioner claimants, together with an additional £150 payment if they are receiving support through one of the listed disability benefits.
The new £900 Cost of Living payment for those on eligible means-tested benefits will be made in three instalments - two this year and one in 2024 - it was confirmed by the DWP. However, not everyone on Universal Credit will receive the first payment of £301. DWP guidance explains that claimants will not be eligible for any cost of living payment if their Universal Credit is reduced to £0 for the qualifying assessment period - often referred to as a ‘nil award’.
