£300 Second Cost of Living Payment: As living expenses remain high across the UK in 2025, many individuals are asking if a new £300 Second Cost of Living Payment will be made available this May. With previous cost of living support helping millions of households, the prospect of a new payment is both timely and relevant. However, there is currently no official plan for a new £300 payment to be issued in May 2025.
£300 Second Cost of Living Payment
The £300 Second Cost of Living Payment was originally part of a £900 support package designed to help people manage the effects of rising energy costs and inflation. That package included three separate payments issued to eligible low-income and vulnerable households. These payments were not ongoing benefits but one-time government relief measures to help those on means-tested support schemes.
Overview Table: Previous Cost of Living Payments
| Installment | Amount | Issued |
| First | £301 | Spring 2023 |
| Second | £300 | Autumn 2023 |
| Third | £299 | Early 2024 |
These payments were automatically made to individuals receiving benefits such as Universal Credit, Pension Credit, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA), and income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), provided they met the qualifying criteria during assessment periods set by the government.
What to Know About May 2025
No additional £300 Second Cost of Living Payment has been announced for May 2025. The previous payments issued under the £900 support package were completed in early 2024. This means households should not expect a new payment of this amount unless the government announces a new round of support later in the year.
Although that particular payment is not scheduled for May, other forms of assistance continue to be available for those experiencing financial hardship.
Financial Help Still Available in 2025
Even without a new £300 payment this month, several programs and funds are still in place to help individuals with essential costs. These include help with energy bills, food, rent, and other necessities.
Household Support Fund
The Household Support Fund continues to offer emergency financial assistance to households struggling with rising costs. This includes help with purchasing food, paying for utilities, and covering basic living needs.
Each local council administers its own version of the fund, so the amount, criteria, and application process vary by location. People in need of support should check directly with their local council for information.
Energy Assistance Schemes
Energy costs are still a major concern for many households, but support remains available through various schemes, including:
- One-off discounts on energy bills for qualifying individuals
- Assistance with improving energy efficiency in the home (e.g., better insulation, boiler replacements)
- Local council-run energy support programs for low-income households
Residents should contact their local authorities or energy providers to see which options may be available to them.
Staying Updated and Getting Help
It’s important to stay informed about all available support. Programs can open and close quickly, and funding often depends on local budgets and demand. To stay ahead:
- Check your local council website regularly for current programs
- Set alerts for new government benefit announcements
- Reach out to community organizations for assistance with applications
- Ask about eligibility for multiple benefits that may be combined
Many people miss out on support simply because they’re unaware they qualify or because deadlines have passed.
Additional Support Options
Combining local and national support can help households manage costs more effectively. Consider the following:
- Food banks and pantries: Offer short-term help for individuals struggling to buy groceries
- Discretionary Housing Payments (DHP): Can help cover rent shortfalls not met by Housing Benefit or Universal Credit
- Council Tax Reduction Schemes: May reduce your monthly council tax bill based on your income
- Charitable grants: Some charities offer one-off payments for urgent needs like energy arrears, school uniforms, or medical equipment
Taking advantage of several smaller programs can sometimes be more effective than waiting for one large payment.
FAQs
Is there a new £300 Cost of Living Payment in May 2025?
No, there is no current plan for a new £300 payment. The most recent payments were part of the 2023/2024 support package, which has now concluded.
Who received the earlier payments?
The payments were made to people receiving means-tested benefits such as Universal Credit, Pension Credit, income-based JSA, or income-related ESA, provided they met the eligibility rules during the government’s assessment periods.
Can I still get help from the Household Support Fund?
Yes, if your local council is still running the program. Each council sets its own criteria and deadlines, so check their website or call directly for details.
What if I need help with energy costs?
There are still schemes offering support with energy bills and home upgrades. You can ask your energy provider or local authority what’s available in your area.
Where can I get help with rent or council tax?
You may qualify for Discretionary Housing Payments or a Council Tax Reduction. Contact your local council to apply.
Final Thoughts
The absence of a £300 Second Cost of Living Payment in May 2025 does not mean help is unavailable. While this specific installment has ended, a wide range of financial assistance programs still exist to help individuals and families manage the high cost of living.
If you are struggling with bills, rent, food, or other essentials, take the time to explore what help you may be eligible for. Many councils, charities, and community organizations are offering targeted support right now. Acting early increases your chances of receiving the assistance you need to stay afloat during difficult financial times.
