Wed, 07 Jan 2026

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 What are cold weather payments and who can get them?

Some people in England, Wales and Northern Ireland can get help with heating costs during cold spells.

* Cold weather payments have been triggered in 697 postcodes across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
* Households on certain benefits may be entitled to £25 per week during periods of prolonged cold weather (average temp 0C or below for 7 consecutive days).
* Payments are automatic and usually paid within 2 weeks into the same bank account as benefits.
* You must live in England, Wales, or Northern Ireland and already receive specific benefits, including pension credit, income-based Jobseeker's Allowance, income-related Employment and Support Allowance, Income Support, Universal Credit, and Housing Benefit.
* Over £9m was issued to those on pension credit during winter 2024-25.
* Payments can be affected if you have a hospital stay or a change in your household (e.g. having a baby).
* Scotland has its own separate winter heating payment, worth £59.75, which is paid automatically between December and February.
* Cold weather payments do not affect other benefits and are separate from the Winter Fuel Payment.
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