Are You Entitled Cold Weather Payment 2022/2023?
Temperatures have already started to drop across the country and most of us have noticed the heating costs going up during the winter months. Due to the increase in expenses during the very cold periods, some people may be entitled to Cold Weather Payment.
What is Cold Weather Payment?
The Cold Weather Payment is a government scheme to help people on a low income and in receipt of certain benefits with their heating costs. Claimants can receive £25, when the average temperature has been recorded as, or forecasted to be colder than zero degrees Celsius across 7 consecutive days. This year the scheme runs from 1st November 2022 to March 2023. Meaning you’ll get £25 for each seven-day period of very cold weather until 31st March 2023.
Am I eligible for Cold Weather Payment?
If you’re currently getting any these benefits, you may may be eligible to claim Cold Weather Payments:
- Pension Credit
- Income Support
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Income-related Employment & Support Allowance (ESA)
- Universal Credit
- Support for Mortgage (SMI)
- Child Tax Credit that includes a disability or severe disability element
It’s also worth noting that the Cold Weather Payments don’t affect your other benefits.
Check whether your area had a 7-day very cold weather period
To check whether you area is due to receive a Cold Weather Payment, use the Cold Weather Payment Checker using your post code on the government’s website.
How to claim Cold Weather Payments
You don’t need to apply for it. If you are eligible, you will be sent a payment of £25 automatically. However if you believe you should have received it, but you haven’t, contact your pension center or Jobcentre Plus office. If you are receiving Universal credit and expected to get a payment, but have not received it, sign into your online universal credit account and leave a note on your journal.
For more info about the scheme check the Gov.uk website here.
For some tips and tricks to reduce your heating costs, have a look these energy cutting articles I have written:
How to max your radiators efficiency with foil!
Dreamland Relaxwell Luxury Heated Throw Review: Does it save money?
