As the weather cools heading towards winter, thousands of families could be in line for a DWP Cold Weather Payment if temperatures plunge below zero. This support is automatically sent out to individuals on six benefits when the temperature is predicted to remain below freezing for seven consecutive days.
The Met Office’s latest forecast suggests that several parts of the UK could be hit by sub-zero temperatures in the coming days, potentially triggering the £25 payments from the DWP. It’s worth nothing that while these payments are automatic, they do have a specific delivery timeframe.
According to the Government website: “After each period of very cold weather in your area, you should get a payment within 14 working days. It’s paid into the same bank or building society account as your benefit payments.”
Payments are determined by regional temperatures in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, meaning whether or not you get the cash can vary depending on location. The system is different in Scotland, where residents receive a one-off Winter Heating Payment of £58.75, regardless of weather conditions.
This payment is made between December and February, with the qualifying criteria otherwise mirroring those of the Cold Weather Payment. If you believe you’re entitled to a payment but haven’t received it, Pension Credit claimants can contact the Pension Service, while others should reach out to Jobcentre Plus.
To qualify for a Cold Weather Payment, you have to be claiming one of these six benefits:
-
Universal Credit
- Income Support
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Support for Mortgage Interest
- Pension Credit
The topic of winter DWP payments has recently made headlines due to alterations to the Winter Fuel Payment, valued at £200 or £300 this year. The eligibility criteria for this payment have been modified, meaning it’s no longer a universal payment for those of state pension age, but will now only be issued to individuals receiving a means-tested benefit, such as Pension Credit.
If you’re missing out on the payment this year, it’s certainly worth checking out if you’re eligible for Pension Credit, as hundreds of thousands of people fail to claim this support. The benefit offers assistance to those on a low income, with the average claim worth more than £3,900 a year.