The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will issue a one-off £370 payment in February 2025 to help low-income households with winter expenses.
As the cost of living continues to rise, this payment aims to support those struggling with heating and utility bills.
This guide breaks down eligibility requirements, payment dates, potential delays, and additional government support.
DWP £370 Payment
The DWP £370 payment is a financial relief measure designed to assist vulnerable individuals in covering essential winter costs. It follows similar cost-of-living payments issued in previous years.
Aspect | Details |
---|---|
Payment Amount | £370 |
Disbursement Date | February 2025 |
Eligibility Criteria | UK residency, receipt of qualifying benefits, age considerations |
Purpose | Help with winter expenses like heating and bills |
Application Process | Automatic for eligible claimants |
Possible Delays | Incorrect bank details, benefit status changes, processing issues |
Official Source | DWP website |
Who Qualifies?
To receive the £370 payment, you must meet the following conditions:
Residency Requirement
You must have lived in the UK during the qualifying week, expected to be in mid-September 2024. If you were abroad during this period, you may not be eligible.
Benefit-Based Eligibility
You must be receiving at least one of the following benefits during the assessment period:
- Pension Credit – For low-income pensioners
- Income Support – For individuals with minimal income
- Income-Based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) – For those actively seeking work
- Income-Related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) – For individuals unable to work due to disability or illness
- Universal Credit (UC) – Some claimants may qualify based on their financial situation
Age Considerations
Certain payments, like the Winter Fuel Payment, are targeted at individuals born before a specific date. Pension Credit recipients are likely to receive the payment automatically.
When Will the £370 Be Paid?
The DWP has scheduled payments for February 2025, but not everyone will receive it on the same date. The exact timing depends on:
- Your regular benefit payment schedule
- Any changes in your personal or banking details
- Processing times at DWP and HMRC
If you do not receive the payment by the end of February, check your bank account and Universal Credit journal or contact the DWP for assistance.
How to Claim the Payment
Most eligible individuals will receive the £370 automatically. However, if you believe you qualify but have not received the payment, follow these steps:
- Check your bank account – The payment should appear under “DWP COL” or a similar reference.
- Verify your eligibility – Confirm that you met the criteria during the qualifying period.
- Contact the DWP – If you still have not received the payment, reach out via:
- Phone: Contact the DWP helpline
- Universal Credit account (if applicable)
Why Haven’t I Received My Payment?
Some common reasons for delays include:
- Incorrect Bank Details – Ensure your payment details are updated with the DWP.
- Change in Benefit Status – If your benefits were under review, this may have caused a delay.
- Residency Changes – Moving abroad may affect your eligibility.
Payments are often processed in batches, so some recipients may receive them later than others.
Additional Government Support
If you qualify for the £370 payment, you may also be eligible for other financial assistance, including:
Warm Home Discount (£150)
A one-off £150 discount on electricity bills for eligible low-income households. Contact your energy provider to check eligibility.
Cold Weather Payment (£25 per cold spell)
A £25 payment is issued automatically when temperatures drop below 0°C for seven consecutive days.
Household Support Fund
Local councils provide grants and vouchers to help low-income households with essential costs such as food and energy bills.
For more details, visit the Gov.uk Cost of Living Support page.
How This Payment Helps – Real-Life Example
Case Study: Sarah, 68, Manchester
Sarah, a pensioner living alone, relies on Pension Credit. With rising energy costs, she struggled to afford heating during the winter months.
The £370 payment, along with the Warm Home Discount, helped her cover expenses and avoid financial hardship.
By understanding your eligibility and payment timeline, you can ensure you receive the financial support available to you. Stay informed and check with the DWP if you experience any payment issues.