Winter Heating Payment 

Winter Heating Payment is to help people on low-income benefits who might have extra heating needs. It replaces the ‘Cold Weather Payment’ in Scotland. Unlike Cold Weather Payments, the Winter Heating Payment does not depend on how cold the temperature gets. Instead, it is an annual payment of £50.05 that is paid automatically if you are eligible.

Who gets Winter Heating Payment? 

You must get and meet specific requirements of a qualifying benefit on at least one day during the qualifying week of 6-12 November 2023.The qualifying benefits are:

Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Income Support, Income based Jobseeker’s Allowance, Income Related Employment Support Allowance, Support for Mortgage Interest

A full list of each benefit’s further requirements can be found online 

Do I need to apply?

Most eligible people will receive this payment automatically. You will receive a letter from Social Security Scotland to let you know if you are eligible.

If you do not receive a Winter Heating Payment and think you are eligible, please contact Social Security Scotland on 0800 182 2222.