Thousands of people will be missing out on the government's Cost of Living payment - because they have a partner.
While millions of people can expect the first payment to hit their bank accounts in July, others will have to wait longer and many more will find that they are missing out altogether. The government have set out a strict eligibility criteria for those who will and won't get paid.
More than eight million UK claimants of Universal Credit, Tax Credits, pension credit and legacy benefits will get two payments of £325 each. However, if you claim with a partner, the payments will be split between both of you rather than receiving £650 each.
READ MORE: Households can expect to receive £650 Cost of Living Payment within weeks
A spokesperson for the Government said: "If you have a joint claim with a partner, you will get one payment of £650 for both of you, paid in two lump sums from July 2022 and in autumn 2022, if eligible. You will not get a payment if you’re eligible for a Cost of Living Payment from HMRC because you’re entitled to tax credits."
Others missing out include those who do not receive a means-tested benefit. The £650 will be tax-free, will not count towards the benefit cap, and will not have any impact on existing benefit awards. This applies throughout the UK.
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