When Cold Weather Payments start and how cold does it have to get
18.10.2023 - 16:01
/ manchestereveningnews.co.uk
With temperatures set to plummet across the UK, you could be in for some extra cash depending on temperatures in your area.
The Cold Weather Payment scheme is set up to help those most vulnerable be able to afford their heating when temperatures drop to zero degrees Celsius or below for seven consecutive days. However, you have to meet a certain criteria to receive the payment.
In general, you need to be on a benefit which will automatically qualify you. This includes Pension Credit, Income Support, Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance, Universal Credit and more. Payments are also not handed out all year and have a certain time window each year.
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The government confirmed that this year's scheme will start on November 1, 2023 and will continue to run until March 31, 2024. That means you could receive the payment across a four-month period as long as the correct weather conditions are met.
It's important to note that this scheme only runs in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. If you live in Scotland, you may instead be eligible for an annual £50 Winter Heating Payment which is issued regardless of conditions in your area.
If you believe you should have received a Cold Weather Payment but didn't, make sure you speak to either the Pension Service or Jobcentre Plus as they can double-check for you. If you are receiving Universal Credit, the government advises to log into your online account and add a note into your journal - otherwise, you can call the Universal Credit helpline whose number appears on letters regarding your Universal Credit claim.