The DWP offers essential winter payments, including Warm Home Discounts and Cold Weather Payments, to assist those in need.
DWP Announces £475 in Extra Payments Ahead of Christmas: Who Qualifies?
By Arezki AMIRI
Published on 22 October 2024 19:46
As part of its ongoing support for low-income and vulnerable households, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is issuing several financial aids this winter. These include £150 Warm Home Discounts and £25 Cold Weather Payments, among other bonuses. Here's a breakdown of the available assistance for those on benefits.
Winter Support Payments for 2024
Following the decision by the new Labour government to scrap the £300 Winter Fuel Allowance for 2024, which has hit many state pensioners hard, the DWP is offering alternative support schemes for households.
Eligible households can still benefit from a variety of payments, some of which are automatic while others require an application.
The Winter Fuel Payment is an annual, tax-free payment aimed at helping with heating costs. It is available to households where someone was born on or before 22 September 1958.
In 2024, the eligibility also extends to those receiving Pension Credit, Universal Credit, Income Support, and other income-related benefits. Eligible households can receive up to £300. Most payments are made automatically.
Benefits Can You Get Instead of Winter Fuel Payment
Cold Weather Payment — £25 per Cold Week
The Cold Weather Payment is a £25 payment issued for each seven-day period where temperatures drop to, or are forecast to be, zero degrees Celsius or below.
This scheme runs from 1 November 2024 to 31 March 2025. You may qualify if you're receiving certain benefits, and the payment is typically made automatically. However, you may need to notify Jobcentre Plus if your household circumstances change, such as the arrival of a baby.
Warm Home Discount — £150 Off Energy Bills
The Warm Home Discount is a one-off payment of £150 to help with energy costs during the winter. This payment does not affect your eligibility for other winter support schemes, such as the Winter Fuel Payment or Cold Weather Payment.
There are no age restrictions to qualify, but you or your partner must have an electricity account with a participating supplier and be claiming the Guarantee Credit portion of Pension Credit or another qualifying benefit. Your property must also meet certain criteria, such as having a high energy cost score, which is based on factors like property type and age.
For help checking your eligibility, you can visit the government website or contact Age UK at 0800 678 1602, available from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., 365 days a year.
Household Support Fund — £200 Grants
In certain areas, such as Birmingham and Nottinghamshire, local councils are offering £200 grants as part of the Household Support Fund. These payments are designed to help struggling households with everyday expenses. To see if you're eligible, contact your local council or use the www.gov.uk/find-local-council service to get more information.