Almost 20 postcodes across the UK have fallen below freezing, making thousands of people eligible for Cold Weather Payments. The Department for Work and Pensions began making payments in November.

The payments are £25 paid to those eligible every time the average temperature in their area falls to zero degrees or below for seven consecutive days. Brits may be eligible if they’re getting certain benefits or Support for Mortgage Interest. If you’re eligible, you do not need to apply, as you’ll get these payments automatically, and they do not affect your other benefits. After each period of very cold weather in your area, you can expect to receive a payment within 14 working days. It’s paid into the same bank or building society account as your benefit payments between November 1, 2025, and March 31, 2026. Postcodes that have fallen below freezing this week include Grasmere, Canonbie, Kendal, and Coniston.

In the future, you can see if your postcode is eligible for the payment by checking the Department for Work and Pensions’ website.

Cold Weather Payments are not available in Scotland. They have been replaced by the Winter Heating Payment, which is worth £59.75.

This is an annual automatic payment made to individuals receiving certain benefits, paid between December and February. It is not dependent on the temperature.