The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced a new £144 income support payment for eligible households in 2025. This move is designed to provide extra help to struggling families, pensioners, and low-income individuals across the UK who continue to feel the pressure of rising living costs. Many households are now searching for clear details about who qualifies, when the payment will arrive, and how to claim it.
In this article, we break down the eligibility criteria, the exact payment dates, and everything pensioners, families, and working-age claimants need to know about the £144 income support.
What is the £144 Income Support Payment?
The £144 income support payment is a one-off financial boost planned by the DWP in 2025. It has been designed to provide immediate relief for households struggling with high energy bills, food costs, and day-to-day expenses. Unlike regular Universal Credit or Pension Credit, this support is a direct top-up payment that will not need to be repaid.
This scheme is part of the UK government’s broader cost-of-living assistance, and it is expected to reach millions of families, pensioners, and disabled individuals who meet the qualifying rules.
Why Has the Government Introduced the Payment?
The UK has faced persistent inflation in recent years, and many low-income households have been forced to cut back on essentials. Even though inflation is beginning to slow, the cost of everyday goods, housing, and energy remains higher than before the pandemic.
The DWP recognises that vulnerable groups like pensioners, single parents, and people with disabilities are the most affected. The £144 payment is intended to ease this pressure and prevent financial hardship.
Who Can Claim the £144 Income Support?
Not every household in the UK will be eligible for the £144 income support. The DWP has set out specific rules to ensure the payment reaches those who need it most.
Eligibility depends on whether you are receiving certain benefits or have a low household income. The main qualifying groups include:
- Pensioners claiming Pension Credit (Guarantee Credit or Savings Credit)
- Families receiving Universal Credit
- Disabled individuals on Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- People claiming Income Support or Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Families with children entitled to Child Tax Credit or Working Tax Credit
If you are already receiving one of these benefits, you should automatically qualify for the £144 payment without needing to apply.
Income Thresholds for 2025
To make sure the money only goes to those who truly need help, the DWP has also set income thresholds. If your monthly income (excluding benefit payments) exceeds the limit, you may not qualify.
The 2025 thresholds are expected to be:
- Single adults: £1,200 per month
- Couples: £1,800 per month
- Families with children: £2,100 per month
If your income is below these levels and you receive a qualifying benefit, you will likely be included in the £144 support package.
Exact Payment Date for the £144 Income Support
The DWP has confirmed that the £144 payment will start from 15 September 2025. Eligible households will receive the money directly into their bank accounts, in the same way they usually get their benefits or pensions.
Payments will be rolled out gradually over a two-week period, so some may receive it earlier while others might need to wait until the end of September. Importantly, no application is required — payments will be automatic.
How Will the Payment Be Made?
The £144 income support will be delivered as a bank transfer directly from the DWP. Pensioners who receive their Pension Credit into a Post Office Card Account or building society will see the money deposited in the same place.
For families and working-age claimants, the payment will arrive in their usual benefit account. This makes the process simple, with no need for claimants to provide extra information or reapply.
Can You Get the Payment If You Work?
Yes, some working individuals may still qualify for the £144 income support, provided they are on low wages and receiving Universal Credit or Working Tax Credit.
For example, if you are working part-time or on a zero-hour contract and your monthly income is below the threshold, you will likely be included. This ensures that working households who are struggling financially are not left behind.
What About Pensioners?
Pensioners are one of the largest groups expected to benefit. Those receiving Pension Credit are automatically included, but many pensioners who are eligible for Pension Credit do not currently claim it.
The DWP has urged pensioners to check their entitlement because applying for Pension Credit now could not only give them ongoing financial support but also make them eligible for the £144 payment.
How to Check if You Qualify
To find out if you will receive the £144 payment, you should:
- Review the benefits you are currently claiming.
- Compare your income against the official thresholds.
- Check your DWP online account or recent letters for confirmation.
If you are unsure, you can contact the DWP helpline or use the official Gov.uk benefits calculator.
Do You Need to Apply for the Payment?
In most cases, no application is required. The payment will be made automatically if you qualify. However, if you think you are eligible but do not receive the money by the end of September 2025, you should contact the DWP.
It is also important to make sure your bank details are up to date. If your account has changed recently, update it with the DWP as soon as possible to avoid delays.
What to Do If You Don’t Receive the Payment
If you believe you qualify but do not receive the £144 by the end of September 2025, you should:
- Contact the DWP with your National Insurance number.
- Provide details of your current benefit claims.
- Ensure your bank account details are correct.
The DWP has set up a dedicated support line to handle such issues, and missing payments will be investigated.
Other Support Available in 2025
Alongside the £144 income support, the government is continuing to provide additional help for low-income households. These include:
- Warm Home Discount Scheme for energy bills.
- Winter Fuel Payment for pensioners.
- Council Tax Reduction schemes run by local authorities.
- Free school meals and other cost-of-living support for families with children.
Claiming all the help you are entitled to can significantly increase your household income.
Final Thoughts
The £144 income support payment in 2025 is a welcome step for millions of UK households facing financial pressures. With a clear eligibility system, automatic bank transfers, and a set date in September, it is designed to be simple and effective.
If you are a pensioner, a family on benefits, or a working individual struggling with low wages, this payment could make a meaningful difference. Checking your eligibility and ensuring your details are up to date will help you get the support without delays.
The DWP continues to encourage households to explore other benefits they may qualify for, as many families miss out on additional help due to lack of awareness.