Who can get it?

You can get Winter Fuel Payment if you have reached State Pension age, were born before a certain date, and lived in the UK during the 'qualifying week'. These dates change every year, but you can check what it is at Gov.uk. You may still qualify if you live in a care home – contact our Helpline to arrange to speak to an adviser.

How much is it worth?

If you qualify, you'll get a letter in October or November telling you how much Winter Fuel Payment you'll get.

The Winter Fuel Payment you get is based on your age, whether you receive certain benefits and who you live with. If you live with someone else who qualifies, the payment is split between you. You can find out how much you’ll get at Gov.uk.

How do I get it?

Most payments are made automatically between November and December. Winter Fuel Payment is tax free.

You will get it automatically if you're claiming benefits like State Pension, Pension Credit or Attendance Allowance.  

If you've not had Winter Fuel Payment before, contact the Winter Fuel Payment Helpline (0800 731 0160) to make a claim if:

• you aren’t receiving any benefits
• you have deferred your state pension
• you live abroad.

You can also claim by post.

You only need to claim once – after this, you’ll receive payments automatically every year. Visit gov.uk/winter-fuel-payment for more information.

Who can get it?

You can only get this benefit if you live in England and Wales. If you live in Scotland, see Winter Heating Payments below.

Cold Weather Payments are made if the average temperature is 0°C or lower for seven days in a row in your area. You might be eligible if you’re getting Pension Credit or certain other benefits like Universal Credit or Support for Mortgage Interest (SMI). You won’t qualify if you’re living in a care home.

How much is it worth?

Each time the average temperature falls below 0°C for seven days in a row between 1 November and 31 March, you'll receive £25.

How do I get it?

You do not need to apply for Cold Weather Payment. After each period of very cold weather in your area, you should get a payment within 14 working days. It’s paid into the same bank or building society account as your benefit payments. Getting it won’t affect any of your other benefits.

This year’s scheme will start on 1 November. If you qualify for Cold Weather Payments, you should receive them automatically. You can check if you’re due a payment on the Department for Work and Pensions website. If you think you should have received a payment but haven’t, contact your pension centre.

Who can get it?

You can only get this benefit if you live in Scotland.

Winter Heating Payment does not depend on the temperature outside. You can get it if you claim Pension Credit, Support for Mortgage Interest (SMI) or some other qualifying benefits. You can check whether you qualify for it at mygov.scot.

This payment shouldn’t be confused with Winter Fuel Payment. They are two separate benefits, and you might qualify for both.

How much is it worth?

Winter Heating Payment is a yearly payment of £55.05. Payments for Winter 2024/25 will be made in 2025.

How do I get it?

If you qualify, it is paid automatically into the same account as your qualifying benefit. You do not have to apply for this benefit.

If you think you’re eligible for Winter Heating Payment but have not received a payment, tell Social Security Scotland. Call them on 0800 182 2222, or send them a Winter Heating Payment request form.

Who can get it?

Warm Home Discount may also be called Warm Home Discount rebate. To get it, you must:

• qualify for Guarantee Pension Credit or be on a low budget, and
• have your or your partner’s name on the bill.

Your supplier also has to be signed up to the Warm Home Discount scheme.

If you don’t qualify for Guarantee Pension Credit, you may still qualify for Warm Home Discount if: 

• you live in England or Wales and have high energy costs
• you live in Scotland and match your energy supplier's eligibility criteria. 

To check if you’re eligible, visit Gov.uk.

How much is it worth?

The money isn’t paid to you but will be taken off your energy bill by your energy supplier. It is usually worth around £150.

How do I get it?

Check if your energy supplier is signed up to the scheme. You could also call the Warm Home Discount helpline on 0800 030 9322.

You should receive a letter by January 2025 if you are eligible. If you have been asked for more information, call the helpline. If you haven't received a letter but think you are eligible for the discount, you should apply by:

• calling the helpline, if you’re in England or Wales
• contacting your supplier directly, if you’re in Scotland.

Problems with debt can happen suddenly and unexpectedly, especially with mortgage and rent rates rising, and bills becoming more expensive over winter. It can be worrying, especially if you are in debt for the first time, but don’t panic – it’s never too early or too late to get help.

For more information on debt advice and how to get support, see our Debt webpages.