As cold weather sweeps across the UK, Brits are already grappling with decisions about heating and budgeting for Christmas.
December is one of the most expensive months of the year, with Christmas Day only a month away.
With inflation rising and household bills hitting all-time highs, here is an overview of the financial support available to many this December.
Benefits staying the same
The Government says most benefits and pension payments will go out as usual in December. These are:
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Universal Credit
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State pension
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Pension credit
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Child benefit
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Disability living allowance
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Personal independence payment
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Attendance allowance
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Carer’s allowance
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Employment support allowance
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Income support
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Jobseeker’s allowance
Christmas Day (December 25) is a bank holiday, so if you’re usually paid on this date, you can expect to receive your payment a day earlier, on December 24.
For more information on how and when state benefits are paid, visit the Government website.
Other benefits to look out for during December include:
Household Support Fund
Shortly after taking office, the Labour Government confirmed plans to extend a scheme to support those most in need. The Household Support Fund (HSF), originally introduced by the Conservatives, was extended for six months beyond its initially scheduled end date of September 30. This means the scheme is now expected to run until the end of March 2025.
Under the HSF, local councils receive money to support vulnerable households. Councils can allocate these funds in ways they deem to be the most effective, such as providing cash grants, supermarket vouchers, or assistance with energy bills.
To find out what help is available, visit your local council’s website.
Winter fuel payment
If you were born before September 23, 1958, you may be eligible to receive £200 or £300 to help with your heating bills for winter 2024-2025. This support, known as the winter fuel payment, is means-tested.
You can check here to see if you are eligible.
Those who qualify should have received a notification letter in October or November. You can verify your eligibility using the provided link if you were overlooked.
Cold weather payment
You may also qualify for a cold weather payment, a Government scheme designed to help during severe cold snaps.
This payment is available to those receiving certain benefits.
If you’re eligible, you should receive these payments automatically. A payment is triggered if the average temperature in your area is recorded as, or forecast to be, zero degrees Celsius or below for seven consecutive days.
You’ll receive £25 for each seven days of very cold weather between November 1, 2024, and March 31, 2025.
You can check all the benefits and financial support you could get by visiting the Government website here.
