The Government is stepping in with support to provide vital help to those who are struggling. However, sadly, this is being taken advantage of by unscrupulous fraudsters looking to target Britons and their hard-earned cash.
Some people have received a message or cold call which asks them to apply or contact someone about the cost of living payment.
However, the Government has confirmed this is a scam and should not be engaged with under any circumstances.
The Department for Work and Pension (DWP) recently took to social media to issue a stark warning to Britons.
It promised it would never ask people for personal details via text message or email.
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The message does not specifically ask for money, however, it may redirect Britons to click on a link or share personal details.
This could be enough to be used by scammers to commit identity fraud, or scam someone in a different way later down the line.
The consequences of falling victim to a scam can be devastating, and as a result people are urged to remain on guard.
Individuals should never rush into a decision, and should always read correspondence carefully.
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These payments are not taxable and Britons do not have to worry as they do not impact the benefits or tax credits they may already receive.
The new cost of living payment windows are yet to be decided for the coming tax year, however, broadly, they will be as follows:
- £301 – First Cost of Living Payment – during Spring 2023
- £150 – Disability Payment – during Summer 2023
- £300 – Second Cost of Living Payment – during Autumn 2023
- £300 – Pensioner Payment – during Winter 2023/4
- £299 – Third Cost of Living Payment – during Spring 2024.
Commenting on the support, work and pensions secretary Mel Stride, said: “We are sticking by our promise to protect the most vulnerable and these payments, worth hundreds of pounds, will provide vital support next year for those on the lowest incomes.”
