Universal Credit claimants may get £25 during cold weather – eligibility rules
The last few weeks have seen energy prices rise astronomically but unfortunately the worst is still to come as forecasters predict that energy bills could soar past £2,000 for the first time next spring. Now is the time to check whether households qualify for Cold Weather Payments from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) before winter sets in.
The UK’s current energy bill price cap is currently set at £1,277 a year based on a typical household’s use, but industry experts suggest it could rise by a further £500 to £800 next April.
Bill payers have already seen a 12 percent price cap increase, which came into effect on October 1.
It could be a bleak winter for pensioners and low income families as energy prices are just one of the rising costs to hit their pockets.
Now is the time to check whether you’re eligible for an extra £25 a week towards heating costs through the Cold Weather Payment scheme.
READ MORE: Universal Credit claimants can save hundreds off water bills
Who is entitled to Cold Weather Payments?
- Those who are claiming Universal Credit
- People who are receiving Pension Credit
- Those who are on Income Support
- People receiving income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Individuals in receipt of income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
- As well as the Cold Weather Payment Scheme, pensioners and low income families could also qualify for the Warm Home Discount Scheme.
People don’t need to apply for he Cold Weather Payment, if they are eligible to get it, they’ll be paid it automatically.
However, they are advised to get in touch with the Pension Service or Jobcentre Plus if they don’t receive a Cold Weather Payment and think they should have.
People on Universal Credit should sign into their account and add a note to their journal.
More information on Cold Weather Payments and other DWP benefits people might be entitled can be found at gov.uk.
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