HMRC confirms some Tax Credits claimants will receive first part of £650 cost of living payment next month

dailyrecord.co.uk:

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) announced earlier this week that people on certain benefits will see the first part of the £650 Cost of Living Payments land in bank accounts from July 14, with all eligible claimants to have received £326 by the end of the month.However, many people are still confused about when they will be paid and by which department if they receive Working Tax Credits or Child Tax Credits either on their own or along with a qualifying DWP benefit.HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has now released a pre-recorded message on the Tax Credits phone helpline which states that anyone who receives Tax Credits AND a qualifying DWP benefit will receive the £326 payment from the DWP from July 14.

Claimants who only receive a Tax Credits payment will get their first payment in the autumn and the second in the winter.The audio message states: “The Cost of Living Payment is being made in two instalments for people who claim Tax Credits.“If you also receive an income-related benefit from the Department for Work and Pensions, you will get your first instalment from July 14.“If you receive Tax Credits only, you will get your first instalment from the autumn.“You do not have to do anything in order to get the payment, if you are eligible, payments will be made automatically.” The Cost of Living Payment guidance on GOV.UK has also been updated to reflect the new information and provide clarity on the payments and eligibility criteria.

Below is everything you need to know if you’re currently in means-tested benefits and/or Tax Credits.You may get a payment of £650 paid in two lump sums of £326 and £324 if you’re getting any of the following:To get the first Cost of Living Payment of £326, you must have been