Cold Weather Payments
Key information
A Cold Weather Payment is money to help with fuel costs
during periods of very cold weather. There must be seven
consecutive days when the average temperature is zero degrees
Celsius or below.
Applies to: England, Wales, Scotland and
Northern Ireland
Age rules: There are no specific age
rules
Type of benefit: Means tested
Taxable: No
Administered by: JobCentre Plus
Index
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Who does it help?
You might qualify for a Cold Weather Payment if you are claiming
Pension Credit and do not live in a
care home.
You may also be eligible if you are claiming:
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What help does it provide?
You get a payment for each week that the Government decides is a
period of very cold weather. You do not have to spend it on
fuel. You can spend it on what you want.
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How much does it pay?
You will automatically be sent £25.00 for each period of cold
weather between 1 November and 31 March each year.
A Cold Weather Payment does not affect any other benefit you
get.
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How do I make claim?
If you qualify for Cold Weather Payments, you will automatically
be sent the money. You do not need to claim it. Tell your
pension centre or benefits office if you think you should have
received a Cold Weather Payment but you have not had one.
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Challenging a decision
If you disagree with the decision made on your claim you
can ask for it to be looked at again, and/or appeal.
The time limits are strict, you will usually be given one
month to dispute a decision, so it is important to seek advice and
act quickly.
See the
Department for Work and Pensions Guide to the Social Fund (link
opens in a new window) for more information.
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This information has been produced by Citizens
Advice.
Last updated: 26 April 2012
Turn2us - to access benefits & grants.
