Kylie
As the UK continues to grapple with high living costs, millions of households are relying on benefits and pensions to stay financially afloat. In July 2025, timely payments, benefit increases, and additional cost of living support could make a real difference to low- and fixed-income households.
This article outlines payment dates, updated support schemes, and the full range of financial help you may be eligible for this month.
July 2025 Benefit Payment Dates
There are no bank holidays in July 2025, so benefits will be paid as scheduled. These include:
- Universal Credit
- State Pension
- Pension Credit
- Child Benefit
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Attendance Allowance
- Carer’s Allowance
- Employment Support Allowance (ESA)
- Income Support
- Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
State Pension Payment Dates Based on NI Number
Pension payments are made every four weeks and are based on the last two digits of your National Insurance (NI) number:
| NI Number Ending | Payment Day |
|---|---|
| 00–19 | Monday |
| 20–39 | Tuesday |
| 40–59 | Wednesday |
| 60–79 | Thursday |
| 80–99 | Friday |
Recent Increases to Benefits and Pensions
In April 2025, the UK government increased:
- Working-age benefits by 1.7%, including Universal Credit, PIP, DLA, and ESA
- The State Pension by 4.1% in line with the Triple Lock, adding up to £472 more per year
Additionally, from April 2026, the standard allowance of Universal Credit will rise by £7 a week. However, health element rates will freeze, and new claimants after April 2026 will see reduced rates of £50/week.
July 2025 Cost of Living Support Available
With inflation still outpacing wages, multiple cost of living support programs remain in place for eligible households:
Key Support Schemes
| Support Type | Details |
|---|---|
| £200 Cost of Living Payment | Paid to eligible households between June 20–28, 2025 |
| Budgeting Advance Loans | Up to £812 for emergencies; repayment capped at 15% of UC allowance |
| Discretionary Housing Payment | Apply via local council; supports rent shortfalls and deposits |
| Household Support Fund (HSF) | Offers up to £300, appliances, or utility help; runs until March 2026 |
| Charitable Grants | Available via organizations like Turn2us for various personal circumstances |
| Energy Supplier Support | Contact your supplier (e.g. British Gas, E.ON) for hardship assistance |
| Council Tax Reduction | Up to 100% discount based on income or hardship criteria |
Free Childcare Expansion (July Update)
As of July 2025:
- 15 hours free childcare is available for 2-year-olds
- 30 hours will cover all children under 5 years old starting September 2025
- Apply online and reconfirm eligibility every 3 months
Energy Price Cap: What’s Changing in July?
From July to September 2025, Ofgem’s energy price cap will drop from £1,849 to £1,720, a 7% decrease. This cut should ease pressure on utility bills for many families.
What Should You Do Now?
- Check your payment dates and update bank details if needed
- Apply early for discretionary housing payments or charitable grants
- Use council tools to find childcare help or council tax reductions
- Track changes to Universal Credit and health benefit criteria if you’re eligible
In July 2025, households across the UK can expect consistent benefit and pension payments, alongside an array of cost of living support.
While many continue to feel the strain of rising prices, this month’s programs—from the £200 Cost of Living Payment to free childcare and energy bill relief—offer meaningful financial help.
Be proactive. Review your entitlements, organize documentation, and contact your local council or DWP if you think you qualify for additional support.
FAQs
Will benefits be delayed in July 2025?
No. Since there are no bank holidays, all benefits and pensions will be paid on time.
How do I check if I qualify for cost of living help?
You can use benefit calculators or contact your local council or DWP office for eligibility guidance.
When will the £200 Cost of Living Payment arrive?
Most will receive it between June 20–28, 2025. Tax Credit recipients will get it in early July.