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Cost of living support this winter
Written by Herman Khosah, marketing adviser
As summer comes to an end, everyone is starting to think of winter bills. Check out the support that could be available to you over the next few months.
Second Cost of Living Payment
The second Cost of Living Payment is set to arrive between 31 October and 19 November and will be for £300.
This will be followed by a third payment of £299 in spring 2024.
Those eligible will be receiving at least one of the following benefits:
- Universal Credit
- Working Tax Credit
- Child Tax Credit
- Pension Credit
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Income Support
If you are eligible, the payments will be paid directly into your bank account. If you have not received your payment, you can report it online.
Energy Price Cap
The price cap limits the amount energy companies can charge per unit of energy. It is currently capped at £2,074 per year and will drop to £1,923 from 1 October 2024. You can learn more about the price cap in our blog.
Energy support schemes
The government’s Cold Weather Payment scheme for England begins on 1 November. The scheme pays out £25 for each seven-day period the weather is recorded to be 0°C or below. It runs until 31 March.
The Warm Home Discount Scheme will also start up again in October and is a one-off discount on your electricity bill of £150.
Last year, those who were eligible were notified by letter and were either:
- Receiving the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit
- On a low income and had high energy costs
Winter Fuel Payment
The Winter Fuel Payment is given by the government to people born before 25 September 1957.
It is aimed at helping people pay their heating bills and is between £250 and £600.
It includes a Pensioner Cost of Living Payment between £150 and £300 and is separate from other Cost of Living Payments.
Most people will get the payment automatically between November and December.
Looking for more money, benefits and wellbeing support?
Find more support for money, benefits and wellbeing from our financial inclusion team.