People in Scotland are being encouraged to verify their eligibility for a payment to assist with the expenses of increased energy bills during the winter season.
Last year, nearly half a million households received a Winter Heating Payment amounting to £27.3 million.
The Winter Heating Payment, a one-time payment of £59.75 in December to aid with escalating energy costs, has replaced the previous £25 Cold Weather Payment provided by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
Unlike the previous DWP payment, the Winter Heating Payment is not reliant on a prolonged period of cold weather in a specific region but is an annual, one-time payment regardless of temperature.
Many households will automatically receive this payment, particularly those on low-income benefits, such as households with young children, disabled individuals, or the elderly.
According to guidance on MYGOV.SCOT, individuals will automatically receive the single payment between December and February.
Recipients of the payment can expect to receive a notification via letter or email, and the payment will reflect as ‘WHP’ (Winter Heating Payment) in their bank statement.
Those eligible for another benefit will automatically qualify for the Winter Heating Payment. While the qualifying week for this year’s payment has not been confirmed, it is anticipated to be the first full week in November, similar to last year (November 3 to 9).
Eligibility extends to employed or self-employed individuals receiving a child or young person disability element. Those who are not employed or self-employed and qualify for Pension Credit will also be eligible.
Additionally, individuals with a child under 5 or meeting certain criteria will qualify for the Winter Heating Payment.
Pensioners in England and Wales are set to receive Winter Fuel Payments ranging from £100 to £300, distributed by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) in November and December.
Social Security Scotland will distribute Pension Age Winter Heating Payments using DWP-provided data, with detailed information now available on MYGOV.SCOT.
Payments will be processed automatically from November, with the amount received dependent on age, household circumstances, and UK residency during the qualifying week of September 15 to September 21, 2025.
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