Martin Lewis has criticised commentators who have linked the debate over whether benefits should rise to unemployment.

Pressure is growing on the Government to confirm benefit payments will rise in line with inflation, amid concerns about the impact of the worsening cost of living crisis.

Consumer champion Martin Lewis has criticised opponents of the rise of trying to make it “workers v unemployed”.

Some people have argued that claimants should not get a rise in line with inflation, when workers are unlikely to receive the same.

 

The Money Saving Expert said around 40% of people who receive Universal Credit are in work.

Martin Lewis took to Twitter to say: "I'm seeing some misunderstanding the benefits debate as if it were workers v unemployed.

“Roughly 40% of those who receive Universal Credit get them as in-work benefits to top up low incomes.

"Many others too have disabilities or mental health problems making work difficult."

DWP Cost of living payment for Universal Credit claimants

The Government paid the first £326 payment to Universal Credit claimants in July.

It was also paid to those on pension credit and those in receipt of legacy benefits.

The second boost of £324 will be paid into accounts between November 8 and November 23.

The money will be tax-free and will not count towards the benefit cap.

It will also not have any impact on existing benefits and will be available to claimants across the UK.

Cost of living support for energy bills

The Government has already announced that bills for an average household in England, Scotland and Wales will be capped at £2,500 from October 1.

Government support is available to help people pay their energy bills.

Households will start receiving money off their energy bills from October, with the discount made in six instalments.

A discount of £66 will be applied to energy bills in October and November, rising to £67 each month from December through to March 2023.