AS TEMPERATURES PLUMMET AND SNOW FALLS, HOW TO CHECK IF YOU’RE ELIGIBLE FOR A COLD WEATHER PAYMENT

Snow and plummeting temperatures look set to continue causing disruption across the UK this week but the government’s Cold Weather Payments scheme could lessen the financial burden for many households.

So how do you know if you qualify for a payment and how to go about claiming?

Salman Haqqi, personal finance expert at money.co.uk, said: ““As the weather continues to reach minus temperatures across the country, the most vulnerable will be able to access the government grant known as the Cold Weather Payments.

“The Cold Weather Payment is designed to help offset heating bills during periods of cold weather, and applies when the temperature drops to zero degrees Celsius or below for seven consecutive days. This government scheme applies between 1 November and 31 March each year.

“If the temperature where you live dips below zero for one week or more, eligible households will receive £25 for each period of seven day.

“If you already have an account registered for benefit payments then you don’t need to file additional paperwork, the Cold Weather Payments will be auto applied.

“Check out our Cold Weather Payments guide to find out how you can check if you’re eligible and how to receive the payment.”