Northern Ireland

How much is the Cold Weather Payment? Eligible postcodes as Northern Ireland hit by wintery conditions

The payment was triggered for a number of postcodes in the north

The fall in inflation is ‘badly timed’ for some of the UK’s poorest households, with benefits set to be increased in line with the latest 1.7% rate
The Cold Weather Payment has been triggered for a number of postcodes in the north. (Gareth Fuller/PA)
By Mark Robinson

The recent cold snap has brought wintery conditions to parts of the Northern Ireland and triggered the Cold Weather Payment in a number of postcodes.

Currently, the scheme runs from November 2024 until the end of March 2025.

It applies to areas with an average temperature below zero degrees Celsius over seven days.

More: Northern Ireland schools closed following overnight snowfall as new warning issued

The payment can also apply if an area is forecast to have an average temperature below zero over a particular week.

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What postcodes are eligible for January 2025?

For the period January 4 – 10, the Cold Weather Payment has been triggered for the following postcodes:

  • BT24, BT25 and BT26
  • BT30, BT31, BT32 and BT34

How much is the payment?

Those eligible for the Cold Weather Payment will receive £25 for each qualifying seven-day period.

It is typically paid within 14 working days.

Snow Falls on the Ligoniel Road on Monday evening. PICTURE COLM LENAGHAN
Snow Falls on the Ligoniel Road on Monday evening. PICTURE COLM LENAGHAN

Does everyone in an eligible area receive the payment?

The Cold Weather Payment is only made available to those in receipt of existing benefits.

Individuals who receive pension credit, income support, jobseeker’s allowance, employment and support allowance, universal credit or support for mortgage interest may be eligible for payment.

The Government has tabled legislation to cut the winter fuel payment for pensioners, limiting it to benefit or tax credit claimants
If you are already in receipt of qualifying benefits, you will not need to apply. (Andrew Matthews/PA)

Full eligibility conditions can be found on the NI Direct website.

How do I apply for the Cold Weather Payment?

If you are eligible for the payment, you do not need to apply – you will receive the payment the same way as your benefits.

For those on income support, income-based jobseeker’s allowance or income-related employment and support allowance, you should inform your benefit office if you have a child under 5 living with you if have not already done so.

Those on universal credit living with a child under the age of 5 should also ensure their circumstances are up to date.