As inflation continues to pressure household budgets across the UK, millions of families are struggling to manage daily expenses. Despite some economic improvements, the cost of essential goods remains higher than during the peak of the cost of living crisis in 2022.

A recent study from the Resolution Foundation confirmed that these prices have not eased significantly. Meanwhile, wages have failed to keep pace, leaving many unable to cover necessary costs such as food, energy bills, and housing.

Food and Energy Bills Reflect Continuing Financial Pressure

In January 2025, a concerning 13.9% of households experienced food insecurity, according to data from The Food Foundation. Additionally, by the end of 2024, total energy bill spending in the UK rose to £3.9 billion, placing an enormous burden on families.

While support exists, many are still unaware of what help is available to them. Staying informed about available benefits and government programs is crucial for financial relief.

Billions in Unclaimed Benefits Remain Untapped

According to Policy in Practice, roughly £23 billion in DWP-administered benefits go unclaimed every year. Despite one in three individuals receiving some form of financial support, many more could be eligible without knowing it.

You can check your entitlement to benefits using the organization’s free benefit calculator on their website.

Benefit Payment Schedule for September 2025

Since September has no bank holidays, benefit payments will be issued as scheduled. Here’s a list of benefits set to be paid:

Benefit Type	Payment Frequency
Universal Credit	Monthly
State Pension	Every 4 weeks
Pension Credit	Every 4 weeks
Disability Living Allowance	Every 4 weeks
Personal Independence Payment	Every 4 weeks
Child Benefit	Every 4 weeks
Carer’s Allowance	Weekly/4-weekly
Attendance Allowance	Every 4 weeks
Employment Support Allowance	Every 2 weeks
Income Support	Every 2 weeks
Jobseeker’s Allowance	Every 2 weeks

The DWP is also progressing with its plan to migrate all legacy benefits to Universal Credit by January 2026. Those on income support, tax credits, housing benefit, or JSA should already have received notices.

State Pension Payment Dates in September 2025

Pension payments are determined by the last two digits of the recipient’s National Insurance (NI) number. Payments are made every four weeks as follows:

NI Number Ending	Payment Day
00–19	Monday
20–39	Tuesday
40–59	Wednesday
60–79	Thursday
80–99	Friday

Benefit Rate Increases: What’s Changing?

In April 2025, benefit values increased by 1.7%, affecting payments such as Universal Credit, PIP, ESA, Attendance Allowance, and Carer’s Allowance. The State Pension also rose by 4.1%, equating to an annual uplift of £472.

Looking ahead, starting next April, all Universal Credit recipients will receive above-inflation increases annually through 2029, beginning with a minimum of 2.3%.

However, the health component of Universal Credit for new applicants will be reduced from £205 to £50 per month, and this amount will remain frozen until 2029. Individuals who believe they may qualify should apply promptly.

Other Available Support Programs

The government offers several additional resources to help with financial hardship:

• Budgeting Advance Loans
• Discretionary Housing Payment
• Household Support Fund
• Charitable Grants
• Help from Energy Providers
• Council Tax Reduction
• Up to 30 Hours of Free Childcare

Upcoming Energy Price Cap Announcement

Ofgem’s energy price cap dropped from £1,849 to £1,720 for July to September 2025. The announcement for the October to December cap is expected by the end of August.

Cost of Living Payments – What’s Next?

As of now, the DWP has not confirmed any new Cost of Living Payments for late 2025. The most recent payment was distributed between February 6 and February 22, 2024, for qualifying households.

Mental Health Support for Those Struggling

If you’re facing emotional or psychological distress, help is available:

• Samaritans: 24/7 confidential support in the UK and Ireland.
• NHS England: Offers an online mental health triage service.
• Mind: Provides a support line and a welfare benefits helpline for navigating benefit entitlements.

With the cost of living still elevated and household budgets stretched, it is essential for UK residents to stay informed about the financial support they’re entitled to.

From pension payment schedules to benefit increases and local council resources, taking full advantage of available aid can provide much-needed relief. Don’t miss out—check your eligibility, plan ahead, and seek help if you’re struggling financially or mentally.

FAQs