People who qualify for the Winter Fuel Payments will begin receiving the money in their bank accounts starting November.
DWP to Send First £300 Winter Fuel Payments Next Month
By Lydia Amazouz
Published on 3 October 2024 10:30
Starting next month, the Department for Work and Pensions will pay out the “first” £300 Winter Fuel Payments Winter Fuel Payments. Those who qualify for Winter Fuel Payments will begin receiving the money in their bank accounts starting November.
Winter Fuel Payments to Hit Bank Accounts Next Month
The payments are typically delivered automatically between November and December. The Labour Party government’s website states that people will get a letter containing all the details regarding how much money each person will receive and into which bank account the money will go, reports BirminghamLive.
People who do not receive the money or a letter by January 29 next year are strongly advised to reach out to the Winter Fuel Payment Centre, which is managed by the DWP. Andy Manning, head of energy policy at Citizens Advice, stated: “This price rise means bills are now around two-thirds higher than before the energy crisis.
“With record levels of energy debt, the removal of previous support and changes to the eligibility of the Winter Fuel Payment, people are in desperate need. The Government must urgently introduce targeted bill support that reflects the realities of people’s energy needs.”
Energy Prices Set to Rise This Winter, Urgent Support Needed for Vulnerable Households
This winter, energy prices are expected to rise significantly compared to previous years, meaning households will face thousands of extra pounds in heating costs.
Simon Francis, co-ordinator of the End Fuel Poverty Coalition, said: “We’re now heading into the fourth winter of sky-high energy prices. After October 1, bills will be 65% higher than in 2020/21, meaning the average household will have paid more than £2,500 extra for their energy than had we not been so exposed to volatile energy markets.
He also added that older people who used to receive the Winter Fuel Payment but no longer qualify under the Chancellor’s new rules are facing an even tougher situation. He asserted that for many pensioners, this winter will feel like the most expensive yet, with more price hikes expected on the horizon.
Furthermore, he emphasized that while the Government’s plans to improve home energy efficiency and stabilize prices are welcome, they won’t offer immediate relief. According to him, these changes will take time to make a real impact.
He stressed how crucial it is crucial for ministers to provide more support to vulnerable households this winter, “That’s why it is so vital the ministers bring in more support for vulnerable households this winter, reductions in standing charges and a social tariff. The energy industry has made more than £457 billion in profit since the start of the crisis – so there is plenty of money in the system to be able to ensure everyone stays warm this winter and next.”