Secondly, in August, a short-term and targeted cost of living payment kicks in, helping to transition from the excise reduction. It will be paid to middle and low income earners over the age of 18—everyone who earns up to $70,000 who isn't already getting the winter energy payment. It means those who are doing the vital but unpaid work of caring, such as stay-at-home parents, will be eligible for the payment, which will be paid monthly for three months and equates to an extra $27 a week or $350. In total, it will ease the pressure for more than 2 million people, and means that 81 percent of New Zealanders aged 18 and over will either be receiving the winter energy payment or the temporary cost of living payment this year.