As sub-zero temperatures sweep across the UK, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is preparing to roll out Cold Weather Payments to support vulnerable households. These £25 payments are automatically issued when temperatures drop to 0°C or below for seven consecutive days — helping people on low incomes or benefits keep up with increased heating costs during the coldest months.
Let’s break down how the scheme works, who qualifies, and what to expect as the cold snap continues.
What Are Cold Weather Payments?
Cold Weather Payments are government-issued emergency payments provided to eligible households in periods of extreme cold. The scheme runs annually from 1 November to 31 March, covering the winter period when heating costs can spike.
Each qualifying cold period (seven consecutive days at or below 0°C) triggers a £25 payment per household — designed to ease the financial strain caused by rising energy bills.
Who Is Eligible?
Cold Weather Payments are automatically issued to people receiving certain means-tested benefits. However, eligibility may depend on additional personal circumstances, such as having young children or health-related needs.
| Benefit | Additional Criteria (if any) |
|---|---|
| Pension Credit | Automatically qualifies |
| Universal Credit | Must not be working or have limited work capacity; must have a child under 5 or a health condition |
| Income Support | Must have a baby or young child |
| Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) | Must have a baby or child under 5 |
| Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) | Same as above |
| Support for Mortgage Interest | Applies to eligible claimants |
Key Notes:
- No application is required — payments are made automatically.
- If your circumstances change (e.g. a child under 5 moves in), report it to Jobcentre Plus to ensure your eligibility is updated.
How It Works
The system relies on local weather station data to determine when temperatures have fallen below the threshold in your area. When triggered:
- £25 is paid for each 7-day cold spell
- The payment is automatically deposited into your usual benefit account
- There’s no cap — you could receive multiple payments if your area experiences several qualifying cold periods
You can check your postcode using the Cold Weather Payment Checker on GOV.UK to see if your area qualifies.
Why It Matters
With energy bills remaining high and inflation continuing to affect household budgets, Cold Weather Payments are a lifeline for pensioners, single parents, and disabled individuals. For many, an extra £25 could mean the difference between staying warm or cutting back on essentials.
Forecasts from the Met Office suggest ongoing freezing conditions in parts of northern England, Wales, and Scotland — meaning the first round of payments could be triggered as early as next week.
What Should You Do?
If you think you’re eligible:
- Ensure your benefit details are accurate
- Update DWP or Jobcentre Plus with any changes (such as a newborn or dependent child)
- Check the payment tracker regularly during the winter months
If you don’t receive a payment and believe you should, contact your pension centre or Jobcentre Plus.
FAQs:
What is a Cold Weather Payment?
A £25 payment issued to eligible households when the local temperature drops to 0°C or below for seven consecutive days.
Who qualifies for Cold Weather Payments?
People receiving benefits like Pension Credit, Universal Credit, Income Support, or income-based JSA/ESA may qualify — especially if they have children under 5 or health conditions.
Do I need to apply?
No. If you’re eligible, the DWP will pay you automatically.
How can I check if my area is eligible?
Use the Cold Weather Payment postcode checker on GOV.UK.
