Thousands of households now eligible for cold weather payments as freezing temperatures and snow hits the UK
AROUND 4,000 households are among the first to be paid cold weather payments this winter but this could rise as the freezing weather continues.
Cold weather payments of £25 are paid to those on certain benefits to help with energy bills when the temperature plummets to zero degrees celsius or below for seven consecutive days.
Figures published today reveal that four areas in Scotland - Aviemore, Braemar, Loch Glascarnoch, and Tulloch Bridge - are the first to receive the payouts this winter.
But as the scheme runs from November 1, 2018 to March 31, 2019, more payments could be triggered as the freezing weather and snow looks set to continue.
The Met Office says colder air will move across the UK today followed by even colder air arriving from the Arctic on Thursday.
It has issued a number of severe weather warnings for snow and ice in Scotland and ice for most of the UK.
You can use the to see if your area becomes eligible for the payments.
But be aware that thousands could miss out on cold weather payments because they're based on the temperature at weather stations that can be miles away from where you live.
Cold weather payments are paid into the same bank or building society account as your benefit payments, and you should get the cash within 14 days of the cold snap.
You should get them if you receive pension credit, support for mortgage interest or income-related employment and support allowance and you're in a work related activity group.
Those on income-related employment and support allowance who aren't in a work group may also qualify if they get a severe or enhanced disability premium, a pensioner premium, child tax credit that includes a disability or severe disability element, or have a child who is disabled or a child under five who is living with them.
If you're on income support and income-based jobseeker’s allowance, you should qualify if you have a disability or pensioner premium, a child who is disabled, get child tax credit that includes a disability or severe disability element, or a child under five is living with you.
You’ll also usually get Cold Weather Payments if you get Universal Credit and you’re not employed or self-employed and you have a health condition or disability and have limited capability for work or you have a child under five living with you.
Tell your pension centre or Jobcentre Plus office if you don't get a cold weather payment when you think you should have. Or if you’re getting Universal Credit, contact the helpline instead on 0800 328 9344.
More on money
You may also be able to claim £140 towards your electricity bill this winter for FREE under the warm home discount scheme.
In addition, households may be eligible for the winter fuel allowance - here's what you need to know.
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