Millions of households across the UK will receive one-off payments ranging between £10 and £300 before the end of the year to help mitigate higher heating bills and additional costs during the winter months. Elderly individuals are set to receive Winter Fuel Payments worth between £100 and £300. The exact amount depends on age and household circumstances.
Only those born before September 23, 1944, and in receipt of a means-tested benefit like Pension Credit during the qualifying week of September 16-22, 2024, are eligible. Most payments are made automatically in November or December, with letters sent out to eligible recipients detailing the exact amount. This payment aids families in Scotland with disabled children and young people under the age of 19.
Eligible families, those who receive certain disability benefits, will receive a one-off payment of £251.50. Payments are expected to be made from November, with letters sent to eligible families beforehand. This one-off payment is available to individuals in Scotland on income-related benefits.
The annual payment replaces the Cold Weather Payment and is issued irrespective of temperature conditions.
Winter fuel aid for pensioners
Social Security Scotland will start payments from mid-December, with most distributions made by the end of February 2025.
The Warm Home Discount provides £150 to eligible low-income individuals, credited to their electricity accounts. The scheme is for those on income-related benefits such as Universal Credit or Pension Credit. The scheme opens in October, and payments are made directly to energy suppliers as account credit.
Carers in Scotland receiving Carer’s Allowance or Carer Support Payment from Social Security Scotland by October 7, 2024, will get this supplement. Payments are typically paid automatically in December. A tax-free bonus of £10 will be given to individuals receiving State Pension or certain other benefits during the qualifying week, the first full week of December.
The payment is made automatically to the accounts where recipients usually get their pensions or benefits. These financial boosts come at a crucial time as many families face increased living costs during the colder months. For further details on eligibility and how to apply for these payments, visit the respective government websites or contact local social services.
