The DWP has responded to growing frustration from people who have been calling for clarity on the cost of living payment dates. The £900 payment, awarded to low-income families on certain benefits, is due to be paid in three instalments in spring and autumn 2023 and finally in spring 2024.
The Government recently refused to comment on whether the spring payments will be made before April 1. Whilst Martin Lewis, the Money Saving Expert, speculated that the first payment will be made shortly after 6 April – the beginning of the new financial year.
The money, which will be £301 for those who qualify,
Now, the DWP has told The Chronicle that “the first payment is due to be made in the spring”. It further added that “specific dates will be confirmed closer to the time”.
Read more: DWP error means thousands of people may be owed up to £6,900 each this year
Many people who are expecting the payment have aired their frustration with the lack of announcement. Many people plan their finances far in advance and knowing when to expect the payments would make budgeting easier.
“It is a disgrace that @DWPgovuk are making people wait all this time for the cost of living payment date,” said one person.
Another, tweeting at Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said: “Could you please tell DWP to provide us with the cost of living payment dates? They say Spring but as summer doesn't start till June that could be ages and I am desperate for help.”
A third said: “Government have long talked about the importance of sound budgeting and planning expenditure. How can I do that when I don’t know when ‘sometime in the spring’ is?”
When approached by The Chronicle, the DWP said that “the first payment is due to be made in the spring – specific dates will be confirmed closer to the time”. The official cost of living page on the gov.uk website further clarifies that the date of payments has not yet been announced but that “the guidance will be updated with the payment dates before each payment starts”.
Reminder of the cost of living payments
£301: First means-tested payment due this Spring
£150: Disability payment due this summer
£300: Second means-tested payment due this Autumn
£300: Pensioner payment will be added to 2023/24 Winter Fuel Payment
£299: Third means-tested payment due Spring 2024
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