May has arrived, bringing some relief after the bill rises of 'awful April' for UK households. However, cost of living concerns persist amid the US-Iran conflict disrupting global oil trade, impacting energy and food prices. Inflation rose to 3.3% in March, signalling renewed upward pressure on household costs.
According to the Cost of Living Action group, 63% of Brits have cut back on essentials. The Resolution Foundation notes that 55% of households in poverty now include at least one working person. Against this backdrop, claiming entitled support is crucial.
Benefit Payment Dates in May
Payments due on bank holidays will be made early: Monday 4 May (Early May bank holiday) payments will be sent on Friday 1 May, and Monday 25 May (Spring bank holiday) payments on Friday 22 May. This applies to Universal Credit, State Pension, Pension Credit, Child Benefit, DLA, PIP, Attendance Allowance, and Carer's Allowance.
The DWP is nearing completion of legacy benefit migration to Universal Credit, with Employment and Support Allowance and Housing Benefit closing by end of summer.
State Pension Payment Dates
State pension is paid every four weeks, based on the last two digits of your National Insurance number:
- 00 to 19: Monday
- 20 to 39: Tuesday
- 40 to 59: Wednesday
- 60 to 79: Thursday
- 80 to 99: Friday
Bank holiday adjustments apply as above.
Benefit Rate Increases
From April 2026, Universal Credit standard allowance rose by 6.2%: single over-25s get £98/week (up £6), couples over-25 get £154/week (up £9). Most other benefits (PIP, DLA, Attendance Allowance, Carer's Allowance, ESA) increased by 3.8% (September inflation rate). However, the health element for new UC claimants was cut to £50/week, and existing claimants' rate is frozen until 2029. State pension rose 4.8% to £241.05/week.
Other Available Support
Crisis and Resilience Fund
Replacing the Household Support Fund and Discretionary Housing Payments, this new scheme offers crisis payments for low-income households facing financial shocks, and housing payments for rent-related costs (restricted to benefit claimants). Councils have discretion, but a cash-first approach is encouraged.
Budgeting Advance Loans
Interest-free loans for Universal Credit claimants in emergencies, repayable over up to two years. Maximum amounts: £348 (single), £464 (couple), £812 (with child benefit). Deductions capped at 15% of standard allowance since April 2025.
Charitable Grants
Various grants exist for disabled, ill, carers, unemployed, students, etc. Use Turn2us's online tool to search.
Energy Provider Help
Suppliers like British Gas, Scottish Power, EDF, E.ON, OVO, and Octopus offer assistance. Some provide free devices like electric blankets.
Social Tariffs
For broadband and water, reduced rates are available for eligible low-income households. Water companies legally must offer social tariffs, but amounts vary.
Council Tax Reduction
Up to 100% discount for those on low incomes or certain benefits. Contact your local council.
Free Childcare
Since September 2025, all working parents can get 30 hours free childcare for under-5s. Also, tax-free childcare gives 20% back up to £500/year.
Energy Price Cap
Ofgem's cap is £1,641 from April to June 2026 (down £117). Fixed tariffs are recommended but fewer available due to Middle East tensions. The next cap announcement is due by 27 May.
Cost of Living Payments
No continuation of the 2022-2024 scheme has been announced.
Mental Health Support
Samaritans: 116 123 (24/7). Mind: 0300 102 1234. Scope forum. NHS online triage service.
