Minister explains why not all benefit claimants will get £900 DWP cost of living payment in 2023

manchestereveningnews.co.uk:

A Government minister has explained why not all benefit claimants will receive the £900 cost of living payment. The first part is due to be paid in spring as part of efforts to ensure that people can manage through the cost of living crisis.

Over the course of the financial year, payments of up to £1,350 will be made to those most vulnerable to cost increases. Claimants that are on qualifying benefits, including Universal Credit, Pension Credit and Tax Credits, will receive the first payment for £301 automatically in the coming months without the need to apply.

The DWP (Department of Work and Pensions) has confirmed however that not all people receiving benefits will be included. This is because the cost of living payment is only applicable to those on means-tested benefits.

Those on Contribution-based Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) will not be eligible, LancsLive reports. READ MORE: When the next inflation figures will be released and what it could mean for you Labour’s Dame Angela Eagle MP asked in a written query: "For what reason the Department has decided that those in receipt of Contribution-based Employment Support Allowance and who do not receive Universal Credit are not eligible for Cost of Living Support payments?" Minister for Social Mobility, Youth and Progression, Mims Davies MP, replied: "The cost of living payment is being targeted at low income households who are in receipt of a means-tested income replacement benefit.