UK Government Sending £90 to Homes This May – What You Need to Do to Get It

UK Government Sending £90 to Homes This May: In May 2025, the UK Government is sending a one-off £90 Cost of Living Payment to millions of low-income households to help cover essential living expenses like food, energy, and other daily needs. This payment is part of a broader support scheme funded through the Household Support Fund (HSF), which was recently extended until March 2026.

This article covers everything you need to know: who qualifies, how to receive the payment, key deadlines, and how to claim extra help through your local council. Whether you’re a parent managing a tight household budget or a professional assisting clients, this easy-to-understand guide breaks it all down.

UK Government Sending £90 to Homes This May

The £90 Cost of Living Payment in May 2025 is a timely measure that acknowledges the rising pressure on household finances. While the amount is modest, it plays a vital role for families already facing tough choices. Whether you’re receiving benefits or helping someone who is, the key takeaway is: check your status and stay informed. Even small actions can add up to big relief.

What Is the £90 Cost of Living Payment?

This £90 payment is a small but significant part of the government’s wider plan to tackle the ongoing cost of living crisis. Funded through the Household Support Fund, the payment aims to provide quick, direct financial relief to families most at risk of hardship.

The fund, originally introduced in October 2021, has now received over £3.2 billion in total funding, with the latest round allocating £842 million to English councils to run support programs until March 2026.

Who Is Eligible for the £90 Payment?

You will automatically receive this payment in May 2025 if you are currently receiving any of the following means-tested benefits:

• Universal Credit
• Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
• Income Support
• Pension Credit

Important: You will not qualify if you’re only receiving contribution-based or “New Style” ESA or JSA, unless you’re also receiving income-based support.

How Will the £90 Be Paid?

The payment method depends on how your local authority or DWP handles disbursements:

• Direct bank transfer – the most common method
• Cheque – for those without direct debit setup
• Voucher – typically provided by councils (often redeemable at major retailers)

You don’t need to do anything to receive this payment—it will be issued automatically, assuming your benefit status meets eligibility requirements during the assessment window.

What Is the Household Support Fund?

The Household Support Fund (HSF) is a government initiative designed to help families struggling with essential costs. Local councils manage the funds and tailor support to their communities. The fund can be used for:

• Food and basic groceries
• Utility bills (gas, electric, water)
• Rent arrears or emergency housing support
• Essential household items (like cookers, fridges, or beds)
• School uniforms or children’s shoes

Funds can be distributed through grants, vouchers, or goods, and may be targeted at specific groups like pensioners, families with children, or disabled residents.

Step-by-Step: How to Check UK Government Sending £90 to Homes This May Status

1. Confirm Benefit Eligibility
   • Log in to your DWP online account or Universal Credit portal.
   • Ensure you’re receiving one of the qualifying benefits listed above.
2. Update Your Banking Details
   • Make sure your bank details on file with the DWP are up to date to avoid delays.
3. Look Out for Payment Notification
   • Check bank statements between early and late May 2025.
   • The payment may appear as “DWP COL” or similar reference.
4. Still Missing the Payment?
   • Contact the DWP helpline.
   • Alternatively, reach out to your local council to check for additional aid options.

What to Do If You’re Not Automatically Paid

While most payments are automatic, here’s what to do if yours doesn’t arrive:

• Double-check your benefit status with the DWP.
• Verify the eligibility date (you must have been receiving benefits during the qualifying window).
• Contact your local council—some authorities require manual applications for extra HSF support.
• Appeal or reapply if you’ve had a recent change in circumstances.

Financial Tips from Experts

Receiving this payment is just one part of managing household finances effectively. Here are a few tips from certified financial advisors:

• Use the money for priority bills first, such as food or energy.
• Combine it with supermarket loyalty schemes or discount apps to stretch the value further.
• Consider applying for energy efficiency upgrades (like boiler grants) which can lower future bills.
• Budget monthly using free tools like MoneyHelper or Citizen’s Advice planners.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is this payment taxable?
No, the £90 payment is non-taxable and won’t affect your other benefits or tax credits.

What if I’m only receiving New Style ESA or JSA?
You won’t qualify unless you’re also on income-related versions of those benefits.

Can I get more than £90?
Some councils offer extra support via the HSF. This may include larger one-off grants or ongoing help.

Is this the last Cost of Living Payment?
The £90 payment is part of a limited-time measure. Additional rounds are not guaranteed beyond March 2026.