As inflation and rising living costs put more pressure on UK households, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has introduced a targeted benefit to help those struggling financially. This comes in the form of a £27 weekly payment, designed to ease the burden of everyday expenses for eligible individuals, especially the self-employed, unpaid workers in family businesses, and low-income families.
If you or someone you know is experiencing financial difficulty, this benefit could offer a small but steady stream of support. Here’s a clear guide on what it is, who can get it, and how to apply.
Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | £27 per week |
| Duration | Up to 14 weeks, depending on circumstances |
| Eligible Groups | Self-employed, unpaid family workers, low-income households |
| Application Methods | Online via gov.uk, by phone, or in person at Jobcentre Plus |
| Documentation Needed | NI Number, proof of income, business or hardship involvement |
| Website | gov.uk – DWP Benefits |
£27 Weekly Payment
This benefit is a financial supplement for those who fall between the cracks of larger welfare schemes. It’s not intended as a full income replacement but rather as a top-up to help pay for basic needs like food, heating, and transport. According to DWP data, more than 500,000 individuals could potentially qualify for this payment.
It is particularly helpful for:
- Rural workers with limited job access
- Families dealing with sudden loss of income
- Unpaid contributors to small, family-run businesses
In areas where full-time work is inconsistent or where households rely on side hustles and flexible gigs, this kind of support can bridge critical financial gaps.
Who Can Claim It?
If you’ve paid Class 2 National Insurance Contributions for at least 13 of the last 66 weeks, you qualify. Even if you fall short of that threshold, you may still be eligible for reduced payments or can top up contributions through HMRC.
Example:
Rachel, a freelance writer, had her income drop during a quiet quarter. Because she had paid Class 2 NICs for over a year, she received £27 per week for 12 weeks while recovering her business flow.
Unpaid Workers in Family Businesses
If you assist in a family-run business—without drawing a salary—you can apply if you:
- Are actively involved
- Can document your role
- Are not formally paid for your work
Example:
John helps his sister run a small home bakery by doing deliveries and social media. Though unpaid, he qualified by submitting a job description and bank statements showing no income from the business.
Low-Income Households
You may qualify if your annual income is:
- Below £18,000 as a single adult
- Below £25,000 with dependents
This includes households affected by illness, job loss, or sudden income reduction.
Example:
Amira, a part-time cleaner and mother of two, had her hours cut. Her total household income fell below the £25,000 threshold, and she was granted the payment for eight weeks during the income gap.
How to Apply
Visit the gov.uk website and search for “£27 weekly DWP support payment” or go directly to the DWP benefits application portal. This method offers the fastest processing and allows you to upload documents digitally.
Apply by Phone
Call the DWP at 0800 055 6688, Monday to Friday, from 8am to 6pm. Be ready to answer basic questions about your income, employment type, and household size.
In-Person at Jobcentre Plus
Bring all documentation and speak to an advisor face-to-face. This method is especially helpful if your case is complex or if you have no internet access.
What You’ll Need
Have these documents ready:
- National Insurance Number
- Proof of income (bank statements, payslips, tax return)
- Proof of self-employment or unpaid business role
- Identification (passport, utility bill, etc.)
- Information about dependents (if applicable)
Tip: Always double-check before submitting. Incomplete forms are the number one reason for delayed processing.
Other Support
If you’re eligible for the £27 payment, you might also qualify for:
- Universal Credit – Covers housing, childcare, and daily living costs
- Council Tax Reduction – Lower your monthly tax payments
- Child Benefit – Up to £24 per child weekly
- Housing Benefit – Rent support
- Pension Credit – For retirees with limited income
Applying for the £27 payment can often help you get assessed for other benefits at the same time.
Why It Matters
In an economy where basic items like groceries and heating are rising sharply in price, £27 may not seem like much—but over 14 weeks, that’s £378 in total. For some, it’s the difference between staying afloat or falling into deeper hardship.
Even if you’re unsure, the best approach is to apply and see what’s available. Many people miss out on benefits because they assume they don’t qualify when they actually do.
This weekly support payment is more than just money—it’s about dignity, access to essentials, and a step toward rebuilding stability.
FAQs
Who is eligible for the £27 DWP payment?
Self-employed, unpaid family workers, and low-income households.
How long does the payment last?
Up to 14 weeks depending on your situation.
Can I apply online for the benefit?
Yes, via the gov.uk DWP benefits portal.
What documents do I need?
NI number, proof of income, and ID.
Will this affect other benefits?
No, it often complements existing benefits.
