Millions across the UK are now receiving the second £300 cost of living payment as part of the government’s confirmed 2025 benefits package. This mid-year support, coordinated by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), has already begun rolling out in May 2025. The payment, which is automatically sent to qualifying recipients, is designed to provide crucial support amid rising costs of living, particularly for households on low income or fixed benefits.
If you’re wondering whether you qualify, this article breaks down the dwp £300 eligibility, key direct deposit dates, and how this second payment fits into the broader cost of living UK assistance plan. There’s no need to apply separately—if you meet the conditions, the funds should already be on the way to your bank account.
Who Is Eligible for the £300 May 2025 Payment?
The second dwp payment applies to those receiving income-related benefits such as:
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Universal Credit
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Pension Credit
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Income-Based JSA or ESA
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Working Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit
To meet the dwp £300 eligibility criteria, you must have received one of the qualifying benefits during the eligibility window set by the DWP. The exact qualifying period fell in late March to early April 2025, and those verified during this time are already being processed for direct deposit dates in May 2025.
Direct Deposit Dates and Payout Timeline
This second dwp payment of £300 is being sent out in staggered phases from May 10th to May 24th, 2025, depending on the benefit you receive. Payments are being processed directly to bank accounts registered with HMRC or DWP systems.
A quick breakdown:
| Payment Group | Deposit Window |
|---|---|
| Universal Credit | May 10 – May 14 |
| Pension Credit / ESA | May 15 – May 19 |
| Tax Credit Recipients | May 20 – May 24 |
Highlighted again, the may 2025 timeline is key, and all payments will reflect in bank statements with a clear reference: “DWP COL”.
What If You Haven’t Received It Yet?
If you’re eligible but haven’t received the second dwp payment by May 24, 2025, here’s what to do:
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Confirm your dwp £300 eligibility period
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Check your bank account details are up to date
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Contact DWP or HMRC for a manual review
Keep in mind that direct deposit dates may vary slightly for those on joint claims or switching benefits. But rest assured, this essential cost of living UK support is being distributed widely and fairly.
How This Fits Into the Full 2025 Benefits Plan
This second dwp payment of £300 is the mid-point in a series of five scheduled payouts in 2025. It’s followed by the autumn disability payment and the final winter installment.
All recipients of these payments can expect:
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No impact on other benefit entitlements
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Tax-free income
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Automatic disbursement (no separate applications)
This ensures that the may 2025 support serves as a real and timely relief for families, pensioners, and vulnerable individuals alike.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the second £300 cost of living payment?
Anyone who received a qualifying benefit like Universal Credit or Pension Credit during the DWP’s eligibility period qualifies under the dwp £300 eligibility rule.
When are the direct deposit dates for the second DWP payment?
Deposits are scheduled between May 10 and May 24, 2025, depending on the type of benefit you receive.
Will I get a notification before the payment hits my bank account?
Most recipients will see the deposit labeled “DWP COL” on their statement without prior notice. There’s no separate alert system.
Do I need to apply for the second DWP payment?
No. The second dwp payment is sent automatically to those who are eligible based on their benefit records.
What should I do if I didn’t receive my May 2025 payment?
Check your dwp £300 eligibility, verify your banking details, and contact DWP to investigate any issues.
Click here to know more.