DWP Confirms Which Benefits Trigger Cold Weather Payments as Temperatures Drop

The UK Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) confirms that certain benefits qualify recipients for Cold Weather Payments (CWPs) during periods of very low temperatures, helping vulnerable individuals with the additional costs of heating and staying warm.

Benefits That Trigger Cold Weather Payments

Recipients of the following benefits are eligible to receive Cold Weather Payments when temperatures are officially recorded at or below freezing (0°C) for seven consecutive days in their area:

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• Pension Credit Guarantee Credit

• Income Support (where the claimant or partner is either aged 60 or over, or a child is included in the claim)

  

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• Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)

• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)

  

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• Universal Credit (with limited exceptions, typically for those receiving housing or disability elements)

How Cold Weather Payments Work

• CWPs are typically paid at £30 per qualifying week during each cold weather period.

• The payment automatically triggers when the official temperature threshold is met in one’s local weather monitoring area.

  

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• Eligible claimants receive payments directly through their usual benefit payment method.

Additional Notes

• Payments are made regionally based on temperature data from the Met Office and usually cover the coldest weeks during the winter months, typically November to March.

• Claimants do not need to apply separately; payments are automatic once the temperature condition is reached.

• CWPs are not taxable and do not affect other benefits.

Summary Table: Benefits Triggering Cold Weather Payments

FAQs

Q1: Do I have to apply for a Cold Weather Payment?
No, eligible claimants receive it automatically when criteria are met.

Q2: How much is a Cold Weather Payment?
£30 per week during a cold weather period.

Q3: Are Cold Weather Payments taxable?
No, they are not taxable and don’t reduce other benefits.

As temperatures drop and harsh weather sets in, CWPs provide vital financial help for eligible recipients to manage extra heating costs and maintain health and comfort during winter weeks.