The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed a £370 payment for eligible households in February 2025.
This one-off financial aid aims to help low-income individuals and families manage higher winter expenses, particularly energy and heating bills.
Here’s a complete breakdown of who qualifies, when payments will be made, and how to claim the money if you don’t receive it automatically.
DWP £370 Payment – Key Details
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | £370 |
| Disbursement Date | February 2025 (varies per claimant) |
| Eligibility Criteria | UK residents receiving certain benefits |
| Purpose | Help with higher living costs during winter |
| How to Apply | Most payments are automatic, but eligibility should be checked |
| Potential Delays | Incorrect details, benefit changes, processing issues |
| Official Resource | DWP Website |
This financial boost is part of the UK government’s ongoing cost-of-living support, ensuring vulnerable households can afford essential utilities.
Who Qualifies for the £370 Payment?
To receive this payment, you must meet three key eligibility criteria:
1. UK Residency Requirement
- You must have lived in the UK during the qualifying week (usually mid-September 2024).
- If you were abroad during this period, you may not qualify.
2. Benefit-Based Eligibility
You must be receiving at least one of the following qualifying benefits during the assessment period:
| Qualifying Benefit | Who It Helps |
|---|---|
| Pension Credit | Low-income pensioners |
| Income Support | Individuals with low or no income |
| Income-Based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) | Those actively seeking employment |
| Income-Related Employment & Support Allowance (ESA) | Individuals unable to work due to health issues |
| Universal Credit (UC) | Low-income workers and unemployed individuals |
If you received one of these benefits during the qualifying period, you should be automatically eligible for the £370 payment.
3. Age Considerations
- If you qualify for Pension Credit, you are likely to receive the payment automatically.
- Other winter benefits (like the Winter Fuel Payment) are specifically for those born before a certain date.
When Will the £370 Payment Be Made?
The DWP will begin disbursing payments in February 2025, but not everyone will receive it on the same day.
Factors Affecting Payment Date
- Your usual benefit payment schedule.
- Changes in bank details or benefit status.
- Processing times at DWP or HMRC.
What to Do If You Haven’t Received the Payment
If you haven’t received the £370 by the end of February 2025, follow these steps:
- Check your bank account – Look for a deposit labeled DWP COL (Cost of Living).
- Verify your eligibility – Ensure you met the criteria during the qualifying period.
- Contact the DWP if needed:
- Phone: Use the DWP helpline.
- Universal Credit Account: Log in and check for updates.
How to Claim the £370 Payment
For most eligible recipients, the payment is automatic, meaning no application is required. However, if you believe you should have received the money but didn’t, take these steps:
1. Check Your Bank Account
- Look for a transaction labeled DWP COL or Cost of Living Payment.
2. Verify Your Eligibility
- Ensure you met the criteria during the qualifying period (September 2024).
- If your benefit status changed, you might no longer qualify.
3. Contact the DWP
- Phone: Call the DWP helpline to report a missing payment.
- Universal Credit Journal: If on Universal Credit, check for messages regarding the payment.
Why Haven’t I Received My Payment Yet?
If your payment is delayed, here are some possible reasons:
| Reason for Delay | What to Do |
|---|---|
| Incorrect Bank Details | Update through DWP or Universal Credit account |
| Change in Benefit Status | If your claim was under review, payment may be delayed |
| Residency Issues | If you moved abroad, you may no longer qualify |
Most delays are temporary, and payments are processed in batches, so wait a few days before contacting the DWP.
Additional Government Support You May Qualify For
Beyond the £370 payment, you may be eligible for other cost-of-living benefits:
1. Warm Home Discount (£150)
- A £150 discount on electricity bills for low-income households.
- Contact your energy provider to check eligibility.
2. Cold Weather Payment (£25 per cold spell)
- If temperatures fall to 0°C or lower for seven consecutive days, you receive a £25 payment.
- Paid automatically to eligible claimants.
3. Household Support Fund
- Local councils provide grants and vouchers for food, energy bills, and essentials.
- Visit the Gov.uk Cost of Living Support page for details.
Real-Life Example – How This Payment Helps
Case Study: Sarah, 68, Manchester
- Sarah is a pensioner who receives Pension Credit.
- Her energy bills increased significantly over the winter.
- The £370 payment and Warm Home Discount (£150) helped her cover heating costs without financial strain.
The DWP £370 payment in February 2025 is a crucial financial boost for low-income households, helping them manage higher winter expenses.
To ensure you receive your payment:
✔ Confirm eligibility (UK resident, on qualifying benefits).
✔ Check your bank account for DWP COL payments.
✔ Contact the DWP if you haven’t received the payment by the end of February.
By staying informed and checking eligibility, claimants can access the support they need without unnecessary delays.
