What is a Cold Weather Payment?

What is a Cold Weather Payment?

When the mercury drops, the Cold Weather Payment offers a financial lifeline. This payment provides £25 for each week of cold weather between 1st November and 31st March.

Qualifying for this benefit means you won't have to choose between heating and eating during the coldest months.

The best part? It's automatically paid into the same account as your other benefits, usually within 14 working days following the week of cold weather. And there's no need to fret about it affecting your other entitlements—it won't.

Am I eligible?

Eligibility for the Cold Weather Payment hinges on whether you receive certain benefits. If you're a recipient of any of the following, you might just be in luck:

• Pension credit

• Income Support

• Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance

• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)

• Universal Credit

• Support for Mortgage Interest

If you're reading this and thinking you might be eligible for these or other benefits but aren't currently receiving them, don't miss out on what could be rightfully yours. It's crucial to check your eligibility as soon as possible.

If you think you may be able to claim these or other benefits, but currently don’t receive them, you can check your eligibility on Gov.uk.

What if I am eligible but haven’t received Cold Weather Payments?

If you're ticking all the boxes for eligibility but haven't seen that extra cash flow into your account, it's time to take action.

Don't wait in the cold—get in touch with your local pension centre or Jobcentre Plus office to tell them you aren’t receiving the payments.

Can I get any more help to pay my energy bills?

Yes, the support doesn't end with the Cold Weather Payment. There's more help available for those struggling to keep their homes warm.

The Warm Home Discount Scheme is one such beacon of hope, offering a one-off rebate of £150 on electricity bills for some low-income households. Call the Warm Home Discount Scheme Helpline on 0845 603 9439. Warm Home Discount:This offers a one-off rebate of £150 on electricity bills for some low-income households.

For those born before 22nd September 1958 and in receipt of Pension Credit , there's additional good news. You may be entitled to a tax-free Winter Fuel Payment to assist with energy costs, and this is provided regardless of the temperature outside. Winter Fuel Payment:

Furthermore, there are various grants and subsidies out there for those in need of financial support. Ask your supplier about these, along with tips to conserve energy and cut fuel bills. Go to http://www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/ for more info.

Finding the Best Energy Tariff

Lastly, one of the simplest ways to cut down on energy costs is to ensure you're on the lowest available tariff. Many people overpay for their energy without realizing it.

Using a comparison service can help you find a better deal and could significantly reduce your bills.

Alongside ensuring you claim any help you’re entitled to, check you are on the lowest available tariff by using MoneySuperMarket’s energy comparison.