Benefits - Winter Heating Payment

This payment helps people on low income benefits who might have extra heating needs. It is automatically paid once a year.

The Winter Heating Payment has replaced the Cold Weather Payment in Scotland. Unlike the Cold Weather Payment, the Winter Heating Payment does not depend on how cold the temperature gets.

The Winter Heating Payment will not affect:

• The payment of any other benefits you’re currently getting, including universal credit
• Winter Fuel Payment

If you're eligible, payments for winter 2024 to 2025 will begin from the middle of December 2024.

Social Security Scotland expects to pay the majority of eligible people by the end of January 2025. You’ll receive a letter from Social Security Scotland before they make the payment.

You can view more information on Who is eligible for Winter Heating Payment on mygov.scot.