Cold weather payments: check eligibility and when you can expect money

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The UK is currently experiencing a cold spell, with snow covering many areas due to rapidly decreasing temperatures as low as -10C in some regions. As a result, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has released an amber health alert, indicating that the health service is likely to encounter the effects of the weather for an extended period of time.

During periods of extreme cold weather, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) offers assistance to eligible households through the Cold Weather Payment scheme. This program provides a one-time payment of £25 for each consecutive week in which the temperature falls at or below zero degrees in your location.

Can I Get Cold Weather Payment?

You can receive the payment if you fit any of the below criteria:

To be eligible, you also need to reside in a region that has encountered seven consecutive days of temperatures at or below freezing point. If you wish to confirm that your postal code falls in a qualifying region, you can utilize the convenient tool provided by the government.

The DWP has their own gear to gauge temperatures in every postcode of the UK. In case you don't agree with their assessment, you have the option to make a direct appeal to the department.

If you reside in Scotland, you are not eligible for this program since the Scottish administration has recently substituted it with Winter Heating Payments.

Payment: When?

In case you meet the requirements, you'll receive these payments without any action on your part. They'll be deposited into the bank account where you receive your benefits, and you should expect to see them within two weeks of the cold period being over.

If you think you are qualified but haven't received the payments yet, it's advised that you get in touch with the DWP.