Cold Weather Payment

A payment when the temperature where you live is, or is forecast to be, 0°C or below for 7 days in a row, if you get certain benefits.

What you get

A payment for each 7-day period of very cold weather in your area, if you qualify. Check the current amount and qualifying benefits on GOV.UK before you rely on a figure — do not assume last year’s amount still applies. It does not affect Warm Home Discount or Winter Fuel Payment.

Who can get it

You usually need to get a qualifying means-tested benefit, and in some cases have a disability, a child, or a pension-age award, depending on the benefit. The official eligibility list is on GOV.UK and should be checked, as it is specific. Northern Ireland has a separate scheme.

Related entitlements

• Warm Home Discount (England and Wales)
• Winter Heating Payment (Scotland)

Official sources we checked

• https://www.gov.uk/cold-weather-payment

Last checked 10 November 2026. This page is information, not an eligibility decision or legal advice. Always confirm the current rules on the official source before you apply.