December 2024 Payment Dates for PIP, DLA, and State Benefits Announced

Across the United Kingdom, many households continue to feel the strain of the ongoing cost of living crisis, as inflation and high energy bills contribute to financial challenges. In December 2024, recipients of state benefits and pensions have a range of support measures to consider. Here's a quick look at the money you can get this December and key dates for benefits recipients.

Overview of December Payment Dates

In light of these economic pressures, here is an overview of the financial assistance accessible to households this December, along with important dates for benefits recipients:

Regular Benefit Payments

Most benefits and pension payments will continue as scheduled throughout December:

• Universal Credit.
• State Pension.
• Pension Credit.
• Child Benefit.
• Disability Living Allowance.
• Personal Independence Payment.
• Attendance Allowance.
• Carer’s Allowance.
• Employment Support Allowance.
• Income Support.
• Jobseeker’s Allowance

Payments scheduled for December 25 (Christmas Day) will be issued on December 24 (Christmas Eve). For detailed information about benefit payment schedules, visit the official government website.

A report from Policy in Practice highlights that nearly £23 billion in benefits remains unclaimed annually. They provide a useful calculator to help individuals determine their potential entitlements.

Extension of the Household Support Fund

In August, Labour confirmed the extension of the Household Support Fund (HSF), originally established by the Conservative government, for an additional six months beyond its initial September 30 cutoff. This means the Fund will now be available until the end of March 2025.

The HSF allocates funding to local councils to support vulnerable households. Councils have the discretion to use these funds in various ways, such as cash grants, supermarket vouchers, or assistance with energy bills. To discover available support, residents should consult their local council’s website.

For further resources, the charity End Furniture Poverty offers an assistance finder tool to help individuals locate available support.

Financial Support for Universal Credit Recipients in Emergencies

For those on Universal Credit facing sudden financial emergencies, the government provides interest-free budgeting advance loans. These loans have a maximum repayment period of two years and are automatically deducted from Universal Credit payments. The maximum amounts available are:

• £348 for singles.
• £464 for couples.
• £812 for families with children.

As part of the recent Budget, a new cap has been introduced on deductions for loan repayments, limiting them to 15% of the standard allowance from April 2025, down from the previous 25%.

Individuals in financial distress may qualify for various charitable grants, which cater to specific circumstances. While these grants can provide vital support, they often come with strict eligibility criteria and limited funding. The charity Turn2us offers an online tool to help individuals search for available grants.

Energy Bill Assistance: Support Programs and Grants for Struggling Households

Numerous energy suppliers, including Scottish Power, EDF, E.ON, and Octopus, offer assistance programs for customers struggling with energy bills. It is advisable to contact your energy provider to inquire about eligibility for support. Additionally, British Gas provides grants of up to £2,000 to customers of any energy provider, subject to specific criteria.

Council Tax Reduction: Up to 100% Discount

For those who qualify based on certain benefits or circumstances, it may be possible to receive a discount of up to 100% on council tax. Local councils can also provide discretionary reductions for individuals facing severe hardship. To apply for a council tax reduction, contact your local council through the government’s website.

Warm Home Discount: £150 Off Electricity Bills

Eligible households can receive a one-off, £150 discount on their electricity bill through the Warm Home Discount scheme, automatically applied if qualified. Eligibility typically requires the bill payer to be on a low income or receiving the guarantee credit element of pension credit.

Free Childcare: Support for Working Parents

All working parents in the UK are currently entitled to 30 hours of free childcare for children aged 3 to 4, with recent expansions to include 15 hours for two-year-olds and plans to extend this to all children from nine months of age by September 2025. Applications must be made online, with eligibility reconfirmed every three months.

Benefit Increases and Rising Energy Costs: What You Need to Know

Following the Chancellor’s Budget announcement, it was confirmed that all benefits will be adjusted by 1.7%, aligning with the September Consumer Price Index. Although this adjustment is standard, advocates had urged for a more substantial increase in light of higher inflation rates earlier in the year.

The increase will take effect on April 7, 2025, affecting all working-age benefits, including Universal Credit and various disability allowances.

On the energy front, Ofgem's price cap rose from £1,568 to £1,717 for the period from October to December, reflecting a 10% increase. This rise will inevitably lead to higher energy bills as winter approaches, impacting many households that are already under financial strain.

As the UK faces these difficult economic times, it is vital that individuals and families explore the support options available and remain aware of their rights.

Support Type Eligibility Amount Available

This structured approach ensures that those in need can access the support available while understanding the eligibility criteria and potential benefits they may receive.