What are cold weather payments and how much are they worth?

Some people in England, Wales and Northern Ireland are entitled to cold weather payments after prolonged periods of below-zero temperatures.

In England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland some people are now entitled to cold weather payments . Those on low incomes and benefits may receive a winter heating payment, which does not depend on how low the temperature falls.

What are cold weather payments?

The cold weather payment is a government benefit top-up to help with fuel bills during times of exceptionally cold weather.

Payments are not age-related.

Who is eligible for them?

To qualify, you must already be receiving certain benefits and meet additional criteria outlined on the UK government website.

Qualifying benefits include:

• Pension Credit
• Income Support
• Income-based Job Seekers' Allowance
• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
• Universal Credit - although there are certain exceptions
• Support for Mortgage Interest

Each cold weather payment is paid for a seven-day period and is worth £25.

More than one payment will be made during the course of the winter if there are enough periods of cold weather.

The scheme runs between 1 November and 31 March each year.

When are cold weather payments active?

The average temperature in your local area must be zero degrees Celsius - or less - for seven days in a row, or be forecast to be below freezing for seven consecutive days.

The temperature needs to be recorded by the weather station nearest to your postcode.

An estimated 5.5 million payments were made to about 3.7 million people last winter in England and Wales, government figures show.

How do I get cold weather payments and how long does it take?

You do not have to do anything in order to get cold weather payments.

The money should be paid automatically into the same bank or building society account as your benefits, within two weeks of the qualifying period of cold weather.

Cold weather payments do not affect other benefits

If you need any more information, email  [email protected], call 0115 958 6872 or fill in an enquiry form below.