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Cold Weather Payment: Who Qualifies and What You Get

If you receive income-related benefits, you may be eligible for a payment during periods of freezing weather.

The Cold Weather Payment is a financial support measure designed to help people manage their costs during periods of freezing temperatures.

Who it's for

This scheme is for people who are currently receiving income-related benefits. Qualification depends on whether your specific benefits fall into this income-related category.

What you get

If the weather meets the necessary temperature requirements, you will receive £25 for each 7-day period of freezing weather. The amount you receive depends on how many of these 7-day periods occur during the cold spell.

What it costs you

There is no cost to receive this payment. You do not need to spend time filling out forms or submitting a claim, as the process is handled automatically.

The catch to know

The main thing to keep in mind is the specific temperature trigger. The payment is only triggered if the local temperature is 0°C or below for a full 7-day period.

How to apply

  1. Check that you are receiving income-related benefits.
  2. Monitor your local temperature to see if it reaches 0°C or below.
  3. Wait to see if the 7-day freezing period is met.
  4. Check your bank account for an automatic payment.
  5. For more details, visit the official portal: https://www.gov.uk/cold-weather-payment