The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that a new £144 income support payment will be rolled out in September 2025. This one-off payment aims to provide much-needed help to pensioners, families, and low-income households who are still struggling with high living costs despite inflation beginning to ease.
Many households are now asking the same questions: Who is eligible, when will it arrive, and do I need to apply? Here’s a clear breakdown of what you need to know.
What Is the £144 Income Support Payment?
The payment is a one-off cash boost worth £144, set to be paid automatically to millions of people in the UK. Unlike loans or advances, this is a non-repayable payment – meaning recipients will not need to pay it back.
It is part of the government’s wider cost of living support package, aimed at tackling rising energy bills, food costs, and other essential expenses that continue to put pressure on household budgets.
Why Has It Been Introduced?
Even though inflation is slowing, the cost of everyday essentials such as groceries, rent, and utilities remains higher than pre-pandemic levels. Vulnerable groups like pensioners, disabled people, and families on low incomes are among the hardest hit.
The government’s decision to issue the £144 payment is intended to provide immediate relief and prevent households from falling into further financial hardship.
Who Will Receive the £144 Payment?
The DWP has set specific eligibility criteria to make sure the money goes to those who need it most. You may qualify if you are currently receiving one of the following benefits:
- Pension Credit (Guarantee Credit or Savings Credit)
- Universal Credit
- Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Income Support
- Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Working Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit
If you already receive any of these benefits, the payment should arrive automatically. No separate application is required.
Income Thresholds for 2025
To keep the scheme fair, the DWP has also introduced income limits. If your income is above the threshold, you may not qualify for the payment.
The thresholds are set at:
- £1,200 per month for single adults
- £1,800 per month for couples
- £2,100 per month for families with children
If your income falls below these amounts and you receive one of the qualifying benefits, you will be included.
When Will the £144 Payment Be Made?
The DWP has confirmed that payments will begin from 15 September 2025. Money will be sent directly into claimants’ bank accounts in the same way as their usual benefits or pension.
Payments will be staggered over two weeks, so while some households may receive it earlier, others might not see the money until the end of September.
Do You Need to Apply?
In most cases, no application is needed. If you qualify, the payment will be made automatically.
However, if you believe you should receive the £144 but don’t see it in your account by the end of September, you should contact the DWP and check your details, especially if your bank account has changed recently.
Additional Support in 2025
Alongside the £144 payment, several other support schemes remain in place, including:
- Warm Home Discount Scheme for energy bills
- Winter Fuel Payment for pensioners
- Council Tax Reduction for low-income households
- Free school meals and childcare support for eligible families
It’s worth checking if you qualify for these, as many households miss out on help simply because they don’t claim.
Final Word
The £144 income support payment is a welcome boost for millions of people across the UK who are still feeling the squeeze of rising living costs. With payments due in September 2025 and eligibility linked to existing benefits, the process is designed to be straightforward.
If you’re a pensioner, family, or low-income worker already claiming support, you should receive this payment automatically. Just make sure your details with the DWP are up to date to avoid any delays.