The Government of Jersey has announced that the Community Costs Bonus payment will be made earlier in 2026, continuing a recent trend aimed at easing financial pressures on households.
Typically paid in autumn, the bonus has been moved to July for the past two years to help families cope with cost-of-living challenges sooner. In 2026, eligible households will receive a one-off lump sum of £516.50.
Payments will be issued automatically to claimants whose eligibility is already confirmed. Others can apply starting from July 14, 2026.
"This policy will help families as soon as possible with cost of living pressures," the government stated.
Eligibility criteria remain unchanged from 2025. Key requirements include:
- At least one adult must have lived in Jersey for five years.
- Combined tax liability was less than £2,735 in 2025.
- The household is not receiving income support.
The government has allocated an estimated £2.466 million from existing department budgets to fund the scheme.
This move is part of ongoing efforts to support residents facing rising living costs.