Help with heating costs, money services and avoiding debt
Winter is an expensive time, with heating bills increasing and the cost of Christmas. There’s a range of information and practical support available if you need it.
Pension Age Winter Heating Payment
Pension Age Winter Heating Payment helps people of State Pension age pay their heating bills. It's paid once a year and replaced Winter Fuel Payment for people in Scotland.
If you're eligible, you could get a payment of between £101.70 and £305.10.
Most eligible people get the payment automatically and do not need to apply. You’ll get a letter to confirm your payment. Letters will be sent from November 2025.
Social Security Scotland will send the payment to the same account as your State Pension, or any Social Security Scotland benefits you get.
A small number of people will need to apply. Check whether you need to apply
If your income is over £35,000, HMRC will take your Pension Age Winter Heating Payment back. You can check if your income is over the threshold and how HMRC will take it back.
Why Pension Age Winter Heating Payment has replaced Winter Fuel Payment in Scotland
The Scottish Government now has its own social security system, Social Security Scotland. This means certain Department for Work and Pensions benefits have been replaced with new benefits in Scotland.
Support with heating costs
There is support with energy costs available for older people, disabled children and young people and their families, and people who are eligible for certain benefits.
To find out if you could receive payments, check your eligibility below:
Home energy advice
If you’re concerned about the cost of heating your home and looking for advice, call the Home Energy Advice Team (HEAT) at the Wise Group on 0800 092 9002 or complete the online contact form. HEAT can offer advice to anyone in energy debt and check if you’re eligible for any funding or discounts.
Home Energy Scotland provides free impartial advice about saving energy, keeping warm at home and reducing energy bills. A Home Energy Check is also available to find out if you can make any savings. Contact them free on 0808 808 2282 or by texting WARM to 81025 for a call back.
Financial advice
The costs of Christmas can cause financial hardship for families and put further strain on already stretched budgets. If you are worried about money, we have a team who can help with free and confidential benefit and debt advice, income maximisation and budgeting. We can also help you appeal a benefit decision, make an application for benefits and signpost support for people in crisis. Contact us on 01698 332551 or visit Welfare rights services.
If you are considering a loan or mortgage, joining a credit union could be a good option. Credit unions help members save regularly, borrow responsibly, and keep on top of finances with affordable, low interest loans and mortgages.
Related content