State pensioners are expected to receive a special winter fuel payment shortly, so they are advised to check their accounts.
State Pensioners are Warned About the Payment of £300 Winter Fuel For Those on Pension Credit
By Chourouk Derkaoui
Published on 11 November 2024 15:59
Pensioners, who are counted in their hundreds of thousands, have been informed that a special payment will soon be arriving in their bank accounts. Known as the 'Winter Fuel Payment', the government is giving these funds to some of the most deprived elderly people.
However, the selection process for winter assistance has undergone significant changes this year. Now, elderly people will only receive assistance if they are in receipt of a pension credit or other specific benefits.
Pensioners Changes to Eligibility and Payment Timing
The Labour government has made it means-tested this year, whereas previously it was a universal payment for all pensioners. This means that around 10 million people will not receive the benefit this year.
Approximately 1.5 million people will still receive the money, which should start appearing in bank accounts this week. But some of those eligible will have to wait a little longer, as payments can arrive at any time between mid-November and Christmas.
Winter Fuel Payment Controversy and Missed Claims for Pension Credit
Depending on the age of the retiree, the winter fuel payment is £200 to £300. Individuals over the age of 80 will get the maximum pension amount. It is intended to help low-income pensioners manage their energy costs and other needs during the winter months.
This year, the issue has become a hotbed of controversy as so many people have withdrawn support. Charity Age UK have strongly condemned and called on the Labour Party for reversing their decision.
The other big problem is that hundreds of thousands of pensioners entitled to Pension Credit are not claiming it and so will not get Winter Fuel Allowance.
Age UK said: “If you were born on or before September 22, 1958 and receive Pension Credit, Universal Credit, Income Support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance or income-related Employment and Support Allowance, you're likely to qualify for the WFP in the winter of 2024-25, as long as you were living in Britain during the qualifying week (this is the week beginning from the third Monday in September – 16 to 22 September 2024).
You should receive your payment between mid-November and Christmas. Call the Winter Fuel Payment helpline on 0800 731 0160 if you have any enquiries, or you do not receive your payment.”