Pensioners can claim the winter fuel payment to assist with heating costs during the winter but must meet recently changed criteria.
The winter fuel payment is a free and tax-free annual benefit designed to support the older individual to cover their heating expenses during the winter.
More than 10 million older individuals have lost their winter fuel benefits because of the new rule undertaken by the UK government. Chancellor Rachel Reeves said future payments will be made for those who are getting pension credits or other means-tested help.
The plans have been criticized by some MPs, unions, and charities. At the Liverpool Party Conference, delegates support a motion to reverse the changes on the upcoming budget before 30 October.
While the Chancellor’s decision affects England and Wales, the Scottish government also decided to end universal entitlement for pensioners. Other forms of support, like Cold Weather Payments and Warm Home Discounts, will remain unaffected.
For the 2024-2025 winter, eligible pensioners will get between $200 and $300, depending on age and circumstances.
Those who were born between 22 September 1944 and 22 September 1958 will get $200, and those born before 23 September 1944 with certain benefits will get $300. If you live with your partner, only one will get the benefits.
The benefit will automatically be credited to your account between November and December.
Although you must first register to receive pension credit for the winter fuel payments, moreover, 880,000 eligible pensioners do not claim it.
To receive this benefit, your weekly income must be less than $218.15 if you are single, and for the couple, your weekly income should be $332.95.
Savings are also considered when determining eligibility. If you are entitled to this benefit between 16 and 22 September, you will automatically receive the payment.
However, disabled people, caregivers, or those with housing costs will still be eligible for winter fuel credits. You can also check the eligibility in the government’s online calculator for better understanding.
If need more information, you can call to pension credit helpline at 0800-99-1234 on weekdays
The final date for the backdated claim is 21 December to ensure you receive this Year’s Winter Fuel Payment.
