IF you live in an area which is set to see plummeting temperatures over the winter period you could be paid hundreds of pounds.
Those living in areas where the average temperature will drop to zero degrees or below for more than seven days in a row could be eligible for the £25 a week uplift.
Known as the Cold Weather Payment, those eligible and affected by bitter temperatures are able to receive the amount between now and March 31, 2022.
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It comes as the North East and North Yorkshire is braced for plummeting temperatures over the next few months as we head into the festive period.
The Government has released a postcode tracker which allows residents in each area to check whether there area is included.
A statement on its website says: "The average temperature in your area must also be recorded as, or forecast to be, zero degrees celsius or below for seven consecutive days.
"The Cold Weather Payment scheme runs from November 1 to March 31."
Who is eligible
Despite plummeting temperatures, not everyone is eligible for the uplift but if you are on certain benefits or receive certain Government support then you can.
The Government says the following people are able to make their Cold Weather Payment claim:
- Pension Credit
- Income Support
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Universal Credit
- Support for Mortgage Interest
How to claim
The Government says that you do not need to apply if you are eligible, saying you will receive it automatically.
It states that you will receive £25 for each seven day period of very cold weather between now and March 31.
Payments are then paid within 14 days of each period into the same bank or building society account as your benefit payments.
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