What is the Cold Weather Payment ?
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The Cold Weather Payment is a government energy grant that gives extra money to people receiving certain benefits, such as Pension Credit, when there are periods of very cold weather. The weather needs to be below a temperature of 0˚C on average for seven days in a row in order for the payments to be made. In this article, we will explain all that you need to know about the cold weather payment.
Last update: November 2022
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These temperature checks are made by the Met Office using specific weather stations around the country. The Cold Weather Payment is £25 a week for each seven-day period of cold weather. The payments only apply between 1 November and 31 March each year.
Who is eligible for the Cold Weather Payment?
You may be eligible for the payment if your area’s temperature meets the required levels and if it offers the scheme. You can check this by using the DWP’s Cold Weather Payment postcode checker. In addition, you also need to be receiving certain benefits.
The types of benefits that are eligible include:
- Pension Credit
- Income Support
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Universal Credit
- Support for Mortgage Interest
Who is eligible for Winter Fuel Allowance?
The Cold Weather Payment is different to the Winter Fuel Payment, which is a one-off, tax-free payment. This is made during the winter to help qualifying people to meet heating costs. It is given out to households which include someone over the State Pension age. In general, most people born on or before 5 October 1954 will qualify for a payment in 2021.
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Who qualifies for the Warm Home Discount?
The Cold Weather Payment is also different to the Warm Home Discount. This is a government initiative designed to support lower-income households so that they can save money on energy bills in the colder winter months. If you qualify you will receive a one-off payment of £140 on your energy bill.
How do I apply for the Cold Weather Payment?
You don’t need to apply. If you’re eligible to receive a Cold Weather Payment, you’ll be paid automatically. If you are not, then you should contact your pension centre or Jobcentre office to let them know.
How you will be paid?
You will receive your Cold Weather Payment in the same way as you usually receive your benefit payments.
How to claim?
You don’t need to apply for Cold Weather Payment. Any payment will usually be made automatically. You should tell the Pension Centre or your local Benefits Office if you didn’t receive a payment.
Remember, that payments can’t be made more than 26 weeks after the last day of a recorded cold weather period. So, if you think you are eligible and have not received payment then you should get in touch with the right people as soon as possible.
How much is the Cold Weather Payment?
The Cold Weather Payment is £25 a week for each seven-day period of cold weather. The payments only apply between 1 November and 31 March each year.
What month do I get my Cold Weather Payment?
The Cold Weather Payment scheme runs from November to March.
Can I get Cold Weather Payment and the Warm Home Discount?
The payment of a Warm Home Discount does not affect entitlement to a Winter Fuel Payment or the Cold Weather Payment.
Cold Weather Payment postcode checker
You can check whether you are eligible for the Cold Weather Payment using the payment checker here.
Would you like to know more about government energy grants? Great! Check out these related articles.
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FAQ
Am I eligible for the Cold Weather Payment?
In order to get the Cold Weather Payment you need to be receiving certain benefits, such as Pension Credit. You also need to make sure the payment is offered in your area and you can find out using the payment postcode checker.
How do you qualify for Cold Weather Payment?
If you qualify due to receiving the right benefits and living in the right area, you will automatically be paid in the same way you receive your benefits.
How long does a Cold Weather Payment take?
Once a period of cold weather has exceeded seven days, you should be paid automatically within 14 working days. If not, get in touch with your Pension or Benefits Office.
How much is the Cold Weather Payment in 2021?
You will receive £25 for each week where qualifying weather conditions are met.
Updated on 11 Nov, 2022
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