An estimated 10 million pensioners could lose out on the Winter Fuel Payment this winter unless they receive means-tested benefits like Pension Credit. The Winter Fuel Payment is a tax-free sum paid in November or December to those over state pension age to assist with heating costs during the winter, ranging from £100 to £300 depending on personal circumstances.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced in July that the payment would only be available to individuals receiving certain benefits, essentially making it means-tested. The legislation was quickly pushed through parliament in August without debate or vote, leading to nearly half a million people signing an online petition by Age UK urging the UK Government to reverse this decision. Age UK’s campaign highlights the negative impact this change will have on older people who rely on the extra support to cover higher winter bills.
To encourage more people to access the benefit, the UK government has launched a ‘Pension Credit Week of Action’ to prompt older individuals to check their eligibility for Pension Credit, thereby gaining access to Winter Fuel Payments. The eligibility criteria for the Winter Fuel Payment include being born before September 23, 1958, living in England or Wales, and receiving Pension Credit, Universal Credit, income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA), or Income Support.
Individuals living in Scotland may receive an annual Pension Age Winter Heating Payment instead. Those residing in care homes could still be eligible under certain conditions. Expatriates may also qualify under specific circumstances if they have a genuine link to the UK. Claiming the Winter Fuel Payment can be done by post starting September 16, 2024, or by phone from October 10.
For detailed information on eligibility and the claiming process, individuals can visit the GOV.UK website. With uncertainties surrounding the Winter Fuel Payment changes, it is crucial for eligible individuals to understand who still qualifies for the benefit to ensure they receive the assistance they need during the upcoming winter season.