Can you get a cold weather payment? We took a look at what is involved with this government grant, and whether you may be eligible.
Cold Weather Payment – What Is It?
There is some financial assistance when there is a stretch of sub-zero weather, as cold snap will cause people to use more energy and feel the pressure from higher bills.
Weather forecasters do not expect the current low temperatures to endure for seven straight days, which we require for the widespread payment of cold weather compensation.
Earlier in the winter, when there was a stretch of bitterly cold weather, many people in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland got money.
In Scotland, where the system is different, people with low incomes and benefits may become eligible for the Winter Heating Payment. However, this is independent of how cold it becomes.
People in England and Wales can use an online postcode checker to determine who qualifies for the payment.
Cold Weather Payment – The Details
To aid with fuel costs during periods of very cold weather, the government offers Cold Weather Payments.
These payouts have nothing to do with age. You must meet other requirements listed on the government website and already be eligible for one of five benefits. These 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 worth $25 and is made for a seven-day period. For each extended cold spell throughout the winter, there can be and has been more than one payment issued.
The programme runs from 1 November to 31 March of every year.
Hospitalizations can have an impact on payments, and benefit offices also want to know if you’ve just given birth or have children under the age of five living with you.
Criteria
The average daily temperature must be below zero degrees Celsius for seven straight days, or be predicted to be below zero for seven straight days.
The weather station closest to your postcode needs to note this temperature.
Winter Fuel Payments
Pensioners receive a different benefit called the Winter Fuel Payment.
Regardless of the weather, more than 11 million retirees receive this income, which ranges from £100 to £300. The amount is determined by your age and if you live alone.
The government has increased the amount this year with an additional £300 cost-of-living payment.
The Warm Home Discount, a separate benefit that provides a £150 return to some elderly and low-income individuals, is another.
Cold Weather Payment – The Logistics
You do not have to do anything in order to get Cold Weather Payments.
Payments arrive automatically and the system pays it straight into your bank account within two weeks.
Each period of very cold weather in your area should trigger a payment. Payment arrives in the same bank or building society account as your benefit payments.
Cold Weather Payments do not affect your other benefits.
If you do not receive your Cold Weather Payment, tell the pension centre or Jobcentre Plus office.
