The first Cold Weather Payments of 2024 have been activated as freezing temperatures and heavy snow hit parts of the UK. With up to 15cm of snow forecasted in some areas and yellow weather alerts for snow and ice issued by the Met Office, qualifying households in 18 postcode areas are now set to receive this vital support.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) offers the Cold Weather Payment Scheme to help vulnerable households manage additional costs during severe cold snaps. Eligible individuals will receive a one-off £25 payment for every seven-day period where the temperature in their area drops to or remains at zero degrees Celsius or below.
Cold Weather Payment Scheme
The scheme is a financial support initiative for low-income households during periods of extreme cold. It is designed to help cover the additional costs of heating and other essentials during cold snaps. Payments are made automatically to eligible individuals in affected areas.
Cold Weather Payments
To qualify for a Cold Weather Payment, you must:
- Live in an area where the average temperature has been zero degrees Celsius or below for seven consecutive days.
- Be receiving one of the following benefits:
- Pension Credit
- Income Support
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Universal Credit
- Support for Mortgage Interest
Additional Conditions
- Those on Universal Credit must have a health condition or disability, or have a child under five living with them.
- You are not eligible if you live in Scotland, where the Winter Heating Payment has replaced this scheme.
Check Eligibility
You can check if your postcode qualifies for a Cold Weather Payment using the government’s online tool. Temperatures are monitored by DWP equipment, and if your area meets the criteria, payments are triggered automatically. If you believe your area qualifies but have not received the payment, you can appeal directly to the DWP.
Payment Timeline
- Payments are issued automatically to eligible individuals.
- The funds will be deposited into the same account used for your benefit payments.
- Payments are expected within 14 working days of the qualifying cold period.
- If you haven’t received your payment but think you qualify, contact the DWP for assistance.
Areas Eligible
As of now, 18 postcode areas across Cumbria, Northumberland, and parts of the English-Scottish border have been triggered for payments.
| Region | Postcode Areas |
|---|---|
| Cumbria | CA9, CA10, CA11, CA12, CA16, CA17, LA8, LA9, LA10, LA21, LA22, LA23 |
| Northumberland | NE19, NE47, NE48, NE49 |
| Border Areas | TD9 (English side), DG14 (English side) |
Scotland’s Winter Heating Payment
Residents in Scotland are not eligible for the Cold Weather Payment. Instead, the Winter Heating Payment offers a flat annual payment of £50 to low-income households, regardless of weather conditions.
How to Appeal
If you believe you are eligible but have not received a payment, verify your postcode using the government tool and contact the DWP to lodge an appeal. Ensure you have your benefit reference number and other necessary details when contacting the department.
The Cold Weather Payment provides crucial financial relief for households during extreme weather conditions. With temperatures continuing to plunge and snow forecasted in many areas, eligible individuals in affected postcodes are encouraged to ensure they receive the support they’re entitled to.
For more information or to check eligibility, visit the government’s Cold Weather Payment Checker.
FAQs
How much is the Cold Weather Payment?
The payment is £25 for every seven-day period of freezing temperatures.
Who qualifies for Cold Weather Payments?
Those on benefits like Pension Credit, Universal Credit, or JSA in eligible areas.
How do I check my postcode?
Use the government’s online Cold Weather Payment tool to verify eligibility.
When will I receive my payment?
Payments are made automatically within 14 working days of the cold period.
Is this payment available in Scotland?
No, Scotland has replaced it with the Winter Heating Payment.
