England, Wales and Northern Ireland
Cold Weather Payment
Last verified: 4 October 2026. We check the official source every night. How we verify.
A payment when the temperature in your postcode area is, or is forecast to be, at or below a set threshold for 7 days in a row, if you get a qualifying benefit. It is usually paid automatically.
How much you could get
Each qualifying 7-day period pays a fixed amount set for the year. Confirm the live amount on GOV.UK. You cannot usually apply for a specific week in advance.
Check the current amount on the official page.
Who can claim
You usually need a qualifying benefit such as Pension Credit, some Universal Credit groups (for example with a child or limited capability for work), or certain disability premiums still attached to a legacy award. Scotland uses Winter Heating Payment for related support.
Eligibility conditions
These are the structured conditions Benefit Badger uses in the eligibility check. They are a guide, not a decision.
- You live in the UK.
- You live in England, Wales or Northern Ireland.
- You may be on a low income or of State Pension age.
Check if Cold Weather Payment may apply to you
It usually takes about 5 minutes. You do not need to create an account. This is guidance, not a government decision.
When it may not apply
If you do not get a qualifying benefit, a cold snap does not create a claim you can make. This is not Winter Fuel Payment.
Where you live
Cold Weather Payment applies in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
If you live in Scotland, see Winter Heating Payment.
Browse benefits in England, Wales, Northern Ireland, or the A–Z list.
How to claim
- Cold Weather Payment is usually automatic. If you get a qualifying benefit and a cold-weather trigger is met in your postcode, DWP typically pays without a claim. GOV.UK explains who is included. Official page
- You cannot usually apply in advance. There is no public application form for a specific cold snap. Make sure DWP has your current postcode on the qualifying benefit.
- This is not Winter Fuel Payment. Cold Weather Payments are triggered by temperature. Winter Fuel Payment is a separate yearly payment with different rules.
- Scotland uses Winter Heating Payment for some of this space. If you live in Scotland, check mygov.scot so you follow the scheme that actually pays.
Official sources
- Cold Weather Payment — GOV.UK (primary source)
Related benefits
See all pension age benefits.
Source: Department for Work and Pensions. This page is guidance from an independent service, not a government decision. Only the relevant government department can confirm eligibility and make a payment.
Check if this may apply to you
It usually takes about 5 minutes. You do not need to create an account. This is guidance, not a government decision.