The Ministry for Social Policy and Children's Rights has announced that the final batch of additional Cost of Living Allowance (COLA) payments has been made this week. A total of 527 families, who were entitled to the benefit but had not yet received it, have now been paid. With this final round of disbursements, the payment cycle for this year's additional COLA has officially been closed.

Figures published by the Ministry show that, over the course of 2025, approximately 98,000 families across Malta and Gozo benefited from this scheme. The measure represented a total government investment of €50 million, aimed at supporting households in coping with the rising cost of living and easing financial pressures on working and vulnerable families alike.

The Ministry explained that the additional COLA is a recurring measure and will be issued again in December. That payment will serve as the first instalment for 2026 and will be provided to all those who are eligible at that time.

Minister for Social Policy and Children's Rights Michael Falzon said the additional COLA is one of several benefits that continue to make a tangible difference in the lives of Maltese and Gozitan families. He noted that the Government intends to strengthen existing social support measures and introduce new ones in the coming weeks.

"Over the past twelve years we have always been there to reward diligence, while we have continued to strengthen the situation of all families, including vulnerable ones," Minister Falzon said. He added that the Government's social policy agenda has consistently prioritised both stability and fairness, with benefits designed to ensure no family is left behind.

The Ministry also confirmed that payments for other benefits are scheduled in the coming days. Around 24,500 families are expected to receive the In-Work Benefit and the Carer's Grant next week. These measures are aimed at further supporting working families and those who provide care within their households, reflecting the Ministry's wider strategy to address diverse social needs across the country.