Cold Weather Payments 2025: How fast is cash paid into bank accounts after snow and low temperatures?
With freezing nights causing chaos across the UK, find out if you could get £25.
The UK has experienced its first real cold snap of the season, and for many, the freezing temperatures have caused serious disruption.
Hundreds of schools have closed, roads are treacherous, and power cuts are leaving homes without heating just as the mercury hits record lows for the year.
While the snow may look picturesque, the reality is harsh, and for those most vulnerable, extra help is available in the form of Cold Weather Payments.
So, how fast can you expect the money to arrive, and how do you know if you’re eligible?
What are Cold Weather Payments?
Cold Weather Payments are a government initiative designed to support people on certain benefits during spells of very cold weather.
Typically, if the temperature drops to zero degrees Celsius or below for seven consecutive days in your area, a one-off payment of £25 is triggered for each week of qualifying cold weather.
The scheme is automatic, meaning you usually don’t have to apply if you’re eligible, but knowing how to check your eligibility can save a lot of stress.
How quickly are Cold Weather Payments made?
In practice, payments are generally processed by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) within a few days of the qualifying weather period ending.
Many people report seeing payments in their bank account within three to five working days, though delays can occur during periods of particularly severe weather when demand spikes.
If you’re expecting a Cold Weather Payment, check your bank account regularly in the days following the cold snap.
And if the money hasn’t appeared after a week, contact your local benefits office. Sometimes additional verification is required, especially if you’ve recently changed your address or benefit status.
Who is eligible for Cold Weather Payments?
Eligibility for Cold Weather Payments depends on both your location and any benefits you may be receiving.
You usually qualify if you receive Pension Credit, Income Support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, income-related Employment and Support Allowance, or Universal Credit and live in an area experiencing the qualifying cold.
To check whether you’re likely to receive a Cold Weather Payment, visit the official government website or contact your local Jobcentre Plus.
You’ll need your postcode to see if your region has been affected and confirm that you receive a qualifying benefit.
