Cost of Living

The rising cost of living is affecting everybody in different ways. Here at Dover District Council, our cost-of-living plan will set out how we plan to support those most impacted, as well as those who have not faced financial challenges before.

As per our Cost of Living Plan, we've dedicated a number of web pages to providing information and resources on how to cope with the rising expenses of everyday life. This will help our communities be more aware, informed and empowered to navigate the rise in the cost of living.  

Autumn Cost of Living Payment 

£300 Cost of Living Payment to be paid automatically between 10-19 November to eligible tax credits customers. 

If claimants are eligible and receive tax credits, and no other qualifying benefits, they will receive their payment from HMRC, to help with everyday costs. Customers do not need to do anything to receive a payment. If they are eligible, payment will be made automatically into the bank account where they receive their tax credits. They do not need to contact us or apply for the payment.   

Receiving the SMS, or a previous Cost of Living Payment, doesn’t guarantee a customer will be eligible for this or future payments. They must meet the separate eligibility criteria for each payment, as published on GOV.UK. 

The HMRC payment will appear on bank statements as ‘HMRC COLS’, referencing Cost of Living Support.  If customers have not received the Cost of Living Payment from HMRC, but believe they are eligible, they should wait until after 20 November to contact us. This is to allow time for their bank, building society or credit union to process the payment.  

If tax credits customers haven’t received the text message, they should check their mobile number is up to date so they can receive such future communications from HMRC. They can do this online by searching for ‘HMRC services’ on GOV.UK. 

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