The UK government has officially announced major financial help for families in need across England this summer. Starting in August 2025, a one-time payment of £655 will land in the accounts of qualified households, and there’s no need to apply for it.
Who Is Getting the Money?
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) says that more than 7 million households will receive this emergency support. The payment is aimed at anyone already on a means-tested benefit, which means it only goes to the most in-need claimants. This includes:
- Universal Credit claimants
- Recipients of Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
- People on Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Income Support claimants
- Pension Credit recipients
- Anyone getting Child Tax Credit or Working Tax Credit
The payment is for people whose benefit is means-tested. If you only get benefits that aren’t means-tested, like the State Pension, Disability Living Allowance, or Personal Independence Payment, you will not receive this payment automatically.
When Will You Get the Money?
The £655 payment will go straight into eligible bank accounts between August 15 and August 30, 2025. On your bank statement, look for the label “DWP COLP” followed by your National Insurance number to see the payment.
No Application Needed
The best part for many families is the easiest part: there’s no long application to fill out. If you’re already getting one of the benefits that meet the rules, you’ll receive the £655 automatically. Just wait for the money to show up—no extra steps needed.
Spend It Where It’s Needed
You can use the £655 however you want, but it’s really meant for the essentials. Most families will likely put the money toward food, energy, rent, or transport as prices keep climbing.
You Don’t Qualify—Now What?
Not everyone will get the £655, but that doesn’t have to mean the end of help. Check for other benefits you might not have applied for yet. The government says it might roll out extra aid later in 2025 for different groups, so keep an eye on the updates from the GOV.UK site or your local council.
This £655 follows headlines about rising prices everywhere—in the shops, on energy bills, in rent notices, and at the pump. It’s short-term help, but it’s here to keep the lights on and the kitchen running for many households across England.