First cost of living payments being made over next six days – and advice on what tax credit customers should do if they don't receive it

COST of living payments up to £650 are now being made following an earlier commitment over the scheme.

The UK Government introduced the payment of up to £650, paid in two lump sums of £326 and £324, for eligible households receiving certain benefits or tax credits, to help with the cost of living.

HMRC’s first Cost of Living Payment to 1.1 million claimant families receiving tax credits are being made between today (Friday) and September 7.

Related: Dates for first cost of living payments revealed

The first HMRC payments will total around £360 million.

If tax credits customers believe they are eligible but have not received a £326 payment between the published payment dates, they should wait until September 16 to contact HMRC.

This is to allow time for their bank, building society or credit union to process the payment.

The UK Government is offering help for households. Customers should check GOV.UK to find out what cost of living support they could be eligible for.

HMRC said today that as well as the Cost of Living Payment, other government support includes:

£400 discount from the UK Government to help with the cost of energy bills from October onwards

£300 Pensioner Cost of Living Payment that will be paid alongside Winter Fuel Payments

£150 Disability Cost of Living Payment from September 20 for those receiving an eligible UK disability benefit.

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