As winter sets in and temperatures drop, many pensioners are eligible for a much-needed financial boost through the Winter Fuel Payment. If you haven’t yet claimed your £300 payment, time is running out – you have until December 21 to apply.
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Winter Fuel Payments are designed to help older people with their heating costs during the colder months. However, with the rules changing, not everyone is automatically eligible this year. Here’s everything you need to know to ensure you get your payment.
Key Information You Need to Know
Winter Fuel Payments range from £100 to £300 depending on your circumstances. In order to qualify, you must be of state pension age and in receipt of a means-tested benefit, such as Pension Credit. To be eligible for this year’s payment, you need to have been claiming one of these benefits during the qualifying week from September 16 to September 22, 2024. If you missed that period, you can still apply for Pension Credit and have it backdated by up to three months, meaning you have until December 21 to secure your Winter Fuel Payment.
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What Benefits Make You Eligible?
- Income Support
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Pension Credit
- Universal Credit
Who is Eligible for the Full Payment?
- If you live alone:
- £200 if born between September 23, 1944, and September 22, 1958
- £300 if born before September 23, 1944
- If you live with someone else:
- £200 if both were born between September 23, 1944, and September 22, 1958
- £300 if one or both were born before September 23, 1944
- If you live in a care home:
- £100 if born between September 23, 1944, and September 22, 1958
- £150 if born before September 23, 1944
Important Dates and Exclusions
- To qualify, you must have been born before September 23, 1958.
- If you lived in a care home for the entire period from June 24 to September 22, 2024, or have been in hospital for over a year, you won’t be eligible for the payment.
- If you’ve been in prison or cannot claim public funds, you are also not eligible.
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How to Apply
Most people will receive their Winter Fuel Payment automatically if they meet the criteria, but if you haven’t received a letter or your circumstances have changed, it’s important to contact the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) immediately.
The deadline for applying is fast approaching – December 21 – so don’t delay. Take advantage of this additional support to help with your winter heating costs!
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