People residing in Scotland are being encouraged to determine if they are eligible for financial assistance to mitigate the impact of increased energy expenses during the colder months. Last year, approximately 500,000 households received a Winter Heating Payment amounting to £27.3 million.
The Winter Heating Payment, a one-time payment of £59.75 in December, aims to alleviate the burden of escalating energy costs and has replaced the previous £25 Cold Weather Payment provided by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). Unlike its predecessor, this payment is not contingent on a prolonged period of cold weather but is an annual disbursement irrespective of temperature fluctuations.
While many households will automatically receive this payment, it is particularly intended for individuals receiving low-income benefits, including families with young children, disabled persons, and older individuals. According to guidance on MYGOV.SCOT, the payment is scheduled to be automatically processed between December and February.
Recipients of the Winter Heating Payment will be notified via letter or email, and the payment will be identified as ‘WHP’ (Winter Heating Payment) on their bank statement. Those eligible for other benefits will also receive this payment automatically. The specific qualifying week for this year’s payment has not been finalized but is anticipated to mirror last year’s schedule, expected to fall on November 3 to 9.
Eligibility criteria include being employed or self-employed and receiving a child or young person disability element. Additionally, individuals not employed or self-employed may qualify if they meet specific requirements, such as being eligible for Pension Credit or having a child under the age of 5.
In contrast, pensioners in England and Wales are set to receive Winter Fuel Payments ranging from £100 to £300, disbursed by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) throughout November and December. Social Security Scotland will administer Pension Age Winter Heating Payments based on information supplied by the DWP, with updated details available on MYGOV.SCOT.
Payments will be processed automatically starting in November, with the amount varying based on age, household composition, and residency status during the qualifying week of September 15 to September 21, 2025.