Finding it tough to manage bills, groceries, and rent? You’re not alone. Rising costs have made everyday essentials more expensive, and support is more important than ever. This guide is designed for people–just like you–navigating benefit payments, £473.56 Pensions cost of living support, and state pensions in August 2025.
Benefit Payment Dates in August
Plan ahead! Most benefits and pensions will be paid as usual. However, due to the August Bank Holiday on Monday 25 August, people expecting payments that day will get them early—on Friday 22 August. This includes:
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Universal Credit
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State Pension
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Pension Credit
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Child Benefit
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Disability Living Allowance
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Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
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Attendance Allowance
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Carer’s Allowance
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Employment Support Allowance
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Income Support
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Jobseeker’s Allowance
Check your payment date using your National Insurance number and always verify with the official government site.
State Pension Payment Days
Your state pension is paid into your account every four weeks. The exact day depends on your NI number:
| NI End Digits | Payment Day |
|---|---|
| 00 to 19 | Monday |
| 20 to 39 | Tuesday |
| 40 to 59 | Wednesday |
| 60 to 79 | Thursday |
| 80 to 99 | Friday |
Quick Scheme Data Table
| Scheme/Support | Details |
|---|---|
| Universal Credit Advance | Borrow up to £812.3 if you have kids. Repaid over 2 years. |
| Discretionary Housing Payment | Apply to your council if you need housing cost help. |
What’s Changing in Benefit Rates?
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April 2025: All benefits were increased by 1.7%, tracking inflation.
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State pension rose by 4.1%, about £472 more a year, following the triple lock rule.
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In April 2026, Universal Credit will rise faster than inflation annually until 2029. But, for new health-related claimants, the extra Universal Credit will drop to £50/month and stay frozen until 2029. If you qualify, applying now could mean a better rate.
Key Help Available This Summer
Budgeting Advance Loans
If you’re hit by an unexpected bill or emergency, you can ask Jobcentre Plus for a budgeting advance loan (interest-free):
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£348 if single
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£464 if a couple
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£812 if you claim Child Benefit
From April 2025, repayments are capped at 15% of Universal Credit standard allowance, making it less of a burden.
Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP)
Get a DHP through your council if you’re on Housing Benefit or Universal Credit (housing element). It can help with:
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Rent shortfalls
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Deposits for new homes
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Advanced rent
Terms vary—ask your local council (see gov site).
Household Support Fund and Help with Essentials
Local authorities offer the Household Support Fund—helping with essentials like appliances, utility bills, or direct cash (sometimes up to £300). To apply, use your council’s online form. This fund runs until March 2026, before switching to the new ‘Crisis and Resilience Fund’.
Charitable Grants You Can Apply For
Many charities help people facing hardship with small grants or one-off payments. Check the Turn2us grants tool or Scope and Mind if you have a disability or mental health issue.
Energy Provider Support
Struggling with electricity or gas bills? Contact your supplier (British Gas, E.ON, Octopus, etc.). Many have extra schemes for those in need.
Council Tax Discounts
If you get benefits or are facing severe financial hardship, your council may offer up to 100% off your council tax. Find the forms on the government site.
Childcare Help
All working parents can access up to 30 hours free childcare for 3-4-year-olds. From September 2025, all under-fives will be eligible for 30 hours. Apply online and reconfirm every three months. For 2-year-olds, 15 free hours are available since April 2024.
Energy Price Cap Update
The Ofgem energy price cap dropped 7% to £1,720 for July-September. Most households on standard tariffs benefit.
What About Cost-of-Living Payments in 2025?
The DWP has said there are no further cost-of-living payments scheduled for 2025, after the last ones in February 2024.
Support for Your Wellbeing – Mental Health
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Samaritans: Call 116 123 any time, any day.
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Mind: 0300 102 1234 (support), 0300 123 3393 (information)
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Scope: Join their online forum for disabled people.
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NHS England: Use their online triage if you’re struggling.
FAQs
Will my benefit payment be late in August 2025?
No—if your payment falls on Monday 25 August, it will arrive early, on Friday 22 August.
Can I get extra help with rent or bills?
Yes. Apply for a Discretionary Housing Payment at your council or explore the Household Support Fund for help with essentials.
Are there any new Cost of Living Payments in 2025?
No new Cost of Living Payments are planned for 2025. Check for local council support or other schemes.
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