THE DEPARTMENT for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that more than 686,000 households in Scotland on means-tested benefits will automatically receive a cost-of-living payment of £301 this spring.

Two further payments of £300 and £299 will follow in autumn and winter 2023 respectively.

DWP has also announced that 639,000 people on disability benefits are set to receive a £150 lump sum this summer. And pensioners will receive an additional £300 payment added to their annual Winter Fuel Payments next winter.

There has been talk that Chancellor Jeremy Hunt may reveal extra aid to assist households struggling with the current cost of living crisis during tomorrow’s Spring Budget, but no official announcement has been made.

Applications for payments are unnecessary as they will be automatically processed, similar to last year. For those waiting on support, please disregard any emails or texts prompting you to apply as there may be a risk of fraud.

These payments are tax-free and will not impact existing benefit awards.

Cost of living payment schedule

  • £301 for people on an eligible low income benefit, paid during spring 2023
  • £150 for people on an eligible disability benefit, paid during summer 2023
  • £300 for people on an eligible low income benefit, paid during autumn 2023
  • £300 for pensioner households, paid during winter 2023 to 2024
  • £299 for people on an eligible low income benefit, paid in spring 2024