The government has today confirmed that around six million people living with disabilities are to receive their one-off disability cost of living payment from 20th September.
The £150 payment will be available to those who are being paid a qualifying disability benefit and will be paid automatically, with the money expecting to reach the majority of beneficiaries by the beginning of October.
This payment is to help disabled people with the current situation regarding the rising cost of living, with an acknowledgement that they often face much higher costs due to their disability. These can include care and mobility requirements.
Chloe Smith, Minister for Disabled People, Health, and Work, said:
“We know disabled people can face additional costs, which is why we are acting to help reduce the financial pressures on the most vulnerable.
“This £150 disability payment is on top of the £1,200 most low-income benefit claimants will also receive and alongside wider support targeted at disabled people, including help with transport and prescription costs.
“We know it’s a worrying time for some people and I’d urge them to check they are getting all the support on offer by searching Help for Households.”
The government’s package of support for those at risk during the current cost of living crisis comes in at £37 billion and will see millions of households receiving at least £1,200 to combat the rising costs.
The UK Chancellor of the Exchequer, Nadhim Zahawi, said:
“We know that rising prices faced by many countries around the world are a significant worry for many people here in the UK, especially those most vulnerable to additional costs.
“Today’s announcement that disabled people will begin to receive an additional £150 payment from the end of September reinforces our commitment to help UK households through the challenging times ahead.
“This payment is in addition to further help households can expect over the coming months – including a second cost of living payment of £324 for households on means-tested benefits, £300 for pensioners this winter, and £400 discount on energy bills for every household. This is all part of pour significant £37 billion support package.”
