People residing in Scotland are being advised to determine their eligibility for a financial aid program designed to assist with the expenses associated with increased energy bills during the colder winter months.
Last year, approximately 500,000 households benefited from the Winter Heating Payment scheme, receiving a total sum of £27.3 million.
The Winter Heating Payment, amounting to £59.75 and disbursed in December, aims to alleviate the burden of escalating energy costs. This payment has replaced the previous Cold Weather Payment of £25 provided by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
Unlike its predecessor, the Winter Heating Payment is not contingent on a specific period of cold weather but is an annual lump sum payment disbursed irrespective of temperature fluctuations.
Most eligible households will receive the payment automatically, particularly those on low-income benefits, including families with young children, individuals with disabilities, and the elderly.
According to guidance available on MYGOV.SCOT, recipients will automatically receive the payment between December and February, as reported by the Daily Record.
Individuals entitled to other benefits will automatically qualify for the Winter Heating Payment. The precise qualifying week for this year’s payment is yet to be confirmed but is anticipated to fall within the first full week of November, likely spanning from November 3 to 9.
Eligibility criteria encompass individuals who are employed or self-employed and receive a child or young person disability element. Additionally, those not in employment or self-employment but eligible for Pension Credit also qualify.
Families with children under the age of 5 or individuals receiving specific benefits are also eligible for the Winter Heating Payment.
Pensioners in England and Wales will receive Winter Fuel Payments ranging from £100 to £300, distributed by the DWP in November and December.
Social Security Scotland will administer Pension Age Winter Heating Payments based on information provided by the DWP. Comprehensive details on the one-time annual payments are now available on MYGOV.SCOT.
Payments will be issued automatically starting in November, with the exact amount dependent on the recipient’s age, household circumstances, and residency in the UK during the qualifying week of September 15 to 21, 2025.