Universal Credit claimants could be entitled to £100 a month as the cold weather begins to sweep in across the UK.
The Cold Weather Payment could see almost four million people claim an extra £25 a week to help with the cost of heating if temperatures drop below a certain level for a certain period of time.
Last winter, the scheme was triggered more than 30 times seeing more than £118 million paid out support across the UK.
Many households are at risk of missing out on the discount, so here’s how to find out if you qualify and how to claim.
Am I eligible?
Claimants will be eligible for the payment if the average temperature in their area is recorded as, or forecast to be, zero degrees celsius or below for seven consecutive days.
As well as Universal Credit claimants, those who are receiving the following may also be entitled to the Cold Weather Payments:
- Pension Credit
- Income Support
- Income-base Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Support for Mortgage Interest
How much will I get and when?
You will received £25 for each seven day period of very cold weather between November 1 and March 31.
After each of these periods, Cold Weather Payments should be received within 14 working days. Payments are made into the same bank or building society account as your benefit payments.
How do I claim?
You don’t have to do anything. If you are eligible for the Cold Weather Payment, you will receive it automatically.
If you did not received the Cold Weather Payment but believe you are entitled, tell your pension centre or Jobcentre Plus office.
If you are getting Universal Credit, sign in to your account and add a note to your journal or, if you don’t have an online account, you can ring the Universal Credit helpline instead on 0800 328 5644.
