The campaign started right after Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced the changes at the end of July, with the policy adjustment taking effect on September 16, reports Daily Record.

Millions of Pensioners at Risk as Winter Fuel Payments Eligibility Rules Change

The eligibility rule change date was set to coincide with the beginning of the qualifying week for this year’s Winter Fuel Payment, September 16 to 22. Despite the Parliament's strong opposition last week, Labour’s plans passed. This implies that around 10 million pensioners; including 850,000 in Scotland, will miss out on energy bill assistance worth up to £300, unless they qualify for an income-related benefit like Pension Credit.

Age UK’s petition warns the eligibility rule change will affect millions of pensioners who rely on the additional financial assistance to cope with the growing heating costs during the winter months.

The charity stated: “We strongly oppose the means-testing of the Winter Fuel Payment because it means as many as 2 million pensioners who badly need the money to stay warm this winter will not receive it and will be in serious trouble as a result.

“Means-testing the Winter Fuel Payment, with no notice and no compensatory measures to protect poor and vulnerable pensioners, is the wrong policy choice, and one that will potentially jeopardise the health as well as the finances of millions of older people this winter — the last thing either they or the NHS needs.”

Winter Fuel Payment Cutbacks Spark Push for Pension Credit

It's worth noting that the rule change will impact pensioners all over Scottland, England, and Wales Northern Ireland and even those who live abroad.

It also implies that the introduction of Pension Age Winter Heating Payment, which will replace Winter Fuel Payment for Scottish pensioners, has been delayed until winter 2025/26.

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) launched a new campaign that aims to boost the adoption of Pension Credit, which represents an entry-level benefit for Pension Credit and extra help with Council Tax and housing costs.

They are also collaborating with local authorities all over Great Britain in order to connect Housing Benefit with Pension Credit. Claimants who can potentially qualify for Pension Credit will be invited to submit their applications for the benefit.

Sir Keir Starmer and Chancellor Rachel Reeves insist on the importance of the decision, which according to them will help address a £22 billion ‘black hole’ the Conservatives left behind. Nearly 71% of disabled pensioners and 83% of those aged 80 or over are now set to lose the payment. People will only get the money if they meet the qualifying criteria.

DWP Confirms Winter Fuel Payment Cuts Will Hit 1.6 Million Disabled Pensioners

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has quietly confirmed that the decision to introduce means testing for the Winter Fuel Payment will disproportionately affect disabled retirees, reports BirminghamLive.

DWP data reveals that 1.6 million disabled individuals will be excluded from the benefit, making up nearly 71% of all disabled pensioners. Additionally, 2.7 million people aged 80 and over, along with 7.3 million individuals between 66 and 79, will no longer qualify for the payment.

4.7 million people who are projected to lose payments live alone, which may exacerbate the financial strain they face. Sir Steve Webb, former Liberal Democrat pensions minister, said: "It is shocking that this impact assessment has appeared late on a Friday evening, three days after MPs voted on the issue.

Age UK Criticises Government Over Winter Fuel Payment Cuts for Disabled Pensioners

Caroline Abrahams from Age UK, a leading charity, pointed out that the Government's data shows significant cuts to Winter Fuel Payments for disabled pensioners. She stated, "The Government’s own figures show that seven in 10 disabled people over pension age will lose their winter fuel payment, and more than eight in 10 of those aged 80 or over."

She explained: "The reality is that driving through this policy as the Government is doing will make millions of poor pensioners poorer still and we are baffled as to why some Ministers are asserting that this is the right thing to do. We and many others are certain that it is not, and that's why we will continue to stand with the pensioners who can't afford to lose their payment and campaign for them to be given more Government support.

"Meanwhile, winter is coming and we fear it will be a deeply challenging one for millions of older people who have previously relied on their Winter Fuel Payment to help pay their energy bills and who have no obvious alternative source of funds on which to draw."

Pension Credit and Winter Fuel Payments

Pensions Minister Emma Reynolds clarified in a written response to Labour MP Sarah Champion that pensioners on Attendance Allowance and with limited incomes could be eligible for Pension Credit, provided all criteria are met. She emphasized that low-income pensioners receiving Attendance Allowance may receive extra financial support through Pension Credit.

Reynolds further explained that Attendance Allowance is determined by a person's ongoing need for personal care or supervision rather than a specific medical condition. This benefit is non-contributory, tax-free, and unaffected by other income or savings. Winter Fuel Payments will continue for households where someone receives Pension Credit or other income-related benefits, offering £200 for eligible households or £300 for those with members aged 80 and over.

Applications for Pension Credit filed by December 21, 2024, may qualify for a backdated Winter Fuel Payment.

A Highly Under-Claimed Benefit

Pension Credit remains under-claimed despite its importance, with around 1.4 million older adults in Great Britain, including over 125,000 in Scotland, currently benefiting from it. This benefit can provide up to £4,000 of extra financial support annually, yet approximately 880,000 eligible pensioners are not claiming it.

Many pensioners mistakenly believe that their savings or homeownership disqualify them from receiving this support. However, even an award of £1 per week can unlock further assistance, including help with housing costs, heating bills, and Council Tax.

Who Should Check Eligibility for Pension Credit?

There are two forms of Pension Credit: Guarantee Credit and Savings Credit.

Guarantee Pension Credit

To qualify, you must:

• Be of State Pension age (66).
• Have a weekly income below £218.15 (single) or £332.95 (couple). These amounts may increase if you are disabled, a carer, or have certain housing costs.

Savings Credit

Eligibility requires that you:

• Reached State Pension age before April 6, 2016, or have a partner who did.
• Have qualifying income of at least £189.80 a week (single) or £301.22 a week (couple).

Pension Credit Payment Amounts

• Guarantee Credit tops up income to £218.15 a week for a single person or £332.95 for a couple.
• Savings Credit offers up to £17.01 a week for a single person and £19.04 for a couple, depending on income and savings. Income is calculated based on savings above £10,000.

How to Check Eligibility for Pension Credit

To determine eligibility, older individuals or their loved ones can use the Pension Credit calculator on the GOV.UK website. Alternatively, claims can be made by calling the Pension Credit helpline at 0800 99 1234, open Monday to Friday from 8 am to 6 pm. Additional support is available from Independent Age, Income Max, Citizens Advice, and Age UK.

State Pension Cuts Could Extend to Concessionary Benefits in Upcoming Autumn Budget

According to Daily Record, some 10 million retirees are going to miss out on annual heating bill assistance valued between £100 and £300 because they do not receive an income-related benefit such as Pension Credit.

Following the Prime Minister's recent response, pension cuts may not end there. During Prime Minister's Questions on Wednesday, Conservative MP Louie French described the cutbacks in Winter Fuel Payments as a “disgraceful political decision” before urging him to “rule out scrapping concessionary travel fares and Council Tax discounts, which also help millions of pensioners across the UK”.

Nevertheless, Sir Keir opted out of answering the questions and responded saying: “I am not going to pre-empt the Budget. It will all be set out in due course.”

Both the Prime Minister and Chancellor Rachel Reeves have been hinting at further cuts in an attempt to restore economic balance in the government's budget, but neither has indicated where they could come. There is growing speculation that the Autumn Budget on October 30 may include changes to Capital Gains Tax, Inheritance Tax, the ISA allowance, and the personal savings allowance.

Council Tax and Travel Changes Unlikely to Affect Scotland's Devolved Schemes

According to The Telegraph, council tax is another option under consideration; however, it is unclear how any changes will effect residents in Scotland, as banding is determined by the Scottish Government.

Similarly, if adjustments to concessionary travel are brought about, they are unlikely to impact those living in Scotland because the scheme is also set up and run by devolved authority.

In Scotland, the National Entitlement Card (NEC) grants access to a range of public services, including free bus travel for seniors and disabled individuals. The Strathclyde Concessionary Travel Scheme also provides discounts on train, subway, and ferry journeys.

For those aged 60 and above, the card is lifelong, provided they remain in Scotland. However, for others, particularly those with disabilities, the card is typically valid for three years before requiring renewal.

In England, the concessionary travel scheme offers free local bus travel exclusively to elderly and disabled people on bus routes within the country.

DWP Faces Criticism Over Winter Fuel Payments and Pension Credit Eligibility

In a few days, only individuals over State Pension age who are receiving income-related benefits, such as Pension Credit, Tax Credits, and other means-tested support will be eligible for the Winter Fuel Payments.

Consequently, around 10 million pensioners, including 850,000 in Scotland, will not get the annual heating assistance. Labour MP Rachel Maskell has criticised the move, urging the DWP to explore other options, such as basing payments on Council Tax bands or linking them to tax payments.

Pensions Minister Emma Renolds issued a written response on Thursday stating that Winter Fuel Payments based on Council Tax banding “would not be possible”, she also added that “Council Tax banding is not always an accurate reflection of someone’s income”.

Ms Reynolds responded to the plan to tax winter fuel payments by saying:“Matters of taxation are for His Majesty’s Treasury. The tax treatment of social security benefits is based on the type of payment and why it is provided.

“In general, benefits that are designed to replace income are taxable, including the State Pension. Benefits that meet specific costs, such as Winter Fuel Payments, are not taxable.”

In a separate written question, Ms Maskell called on the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to “contact every pensioner on Housing Benefit to encourage them to take up Pension Credit”.

The Pensions Minister replied: “The Deputy Prime Minister and the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions wrote to all local authorities on 20th August.

“We are asking that local authorities support our national Pension Credit campaign and help us reach those eligible pensioners who have not claimed Pension Credit, so they continue to receive an annual Winter Fuel Payment.”

She noted that, following last year's 'Invitation to Claim' pilot, the DWP will contact around 120,000 senior households who receive Housing Benefit and may be entitled for, but aren't yet claiming, Pension Credit.

She also stated that they will be encouraging households to apply for Pension Credit before the 21 December backdating deadline to ensure that eligible applicants also qualify for a Winter Fuel Payment.

DWP Launches Campaign to Boost Pension Credit Take-Up Amid Winter Fuel Payment Changes

Replying to a number of written questions from MPs worried about the Winter Fuel Payment adjustment, the Pensions Ministers emphasised that the DWP is working with "external partners, local authorities, and the devolved governments to boost the take-up of Pension Credit".

However, while addressing a written inquiry from Democratic Unionist Party MP Gregory Campbell, she was unable to specify how many seniors she would like to see sign up for a nationwide TV and radio campaign that begins on Monday.

Ms Reynolds replied: “No targets have been set, the Government wants everyone eligible for Pension Credit, but not currently claiming it, to receive the benefits they are entitled to.

“DWP launched the Pension Credit Week of Action on September 2, joining forces with national charities, broadcasters and local authorities to encourage pensioners to check their eligibility and make a claim.

“From September 16, we will be running a national marketing campaign on a range of channels. The campaign will target potential pension-age customers, as well as friends and family who can encourage and support them to apply.

“Our future campaign messaging will also focus on encouraging pensioners to apply for pension credit before December 21 2024, which is the last date for making a successful backdated claim for Pension Credit in order to receive a winter fuel payment.”

Pensioners Born Before September 22, 1958 Eligible for Winter Fuel Payment

Retired people on Pension Credit and other qualifying benefits are eligible for the Winter Fuel Payment. This year, however, not all pensioners will be able to get the money like they used to. Those eligible will receive the payment in November or around Christmas time.

The payment is meant to assist the most impoverished pensioners born before September 22, 1958 pay for their heating bills during the cold season. However, the Labour Government's decision to cut the payments for many has stirred indignation.

Pensioners Urged to Check their Eligibility for Pension Credit

Pensioners who do not receive Pension Credit are being urged to check if they qualify for it, as it represents a major qualifying benefit. As many as 900,000 people are not claiming Pension Credit even though they are eligible for it, this implies that many will not be able to claim the Winter Fuel Payment.

Age UK stated: “The Winter Fuel Payment is an annual payment to help you with heating costs during the colder months. The Government announced in July 2024 that, from this year onwards, to be eligible you must have reached state pension age and also receive a qualifying means-tested benefit.

“Winter Fuel Payment is an annual tax-free payment for households that include someone born on or before September 22, 1958 (for 2024-25) and, from 2024 onwards, receive Pension Credit, Universal Credit, Income Support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance or income-related Employment and Support Allowance, or an award of Child Tax Credit or Working Tax Credit of at least £26 for the tax year 2024-25.

“If you are over state pension age and receive a qualifying benefit, you could get £200 towards your bills. If you are over 80, you could get £300 to help with your bills in winter this year. Payments are made to the person claiming the benefit and are for the household.”

However, this amount is still far below  what is required to provide a decent retirement. Even worse, many people will not receive the full amount.

State Pension Increase of £460 Next April, But Older Pensioners to Miss Out on £107

According to Express, millions of retirees will receive thousands of pounds per year less. Some will receive as little as half of that amount, prompting resentment and bewilderment among many pensioners.

With the triple lock, the state pension increases annually in accordance with wages, inflation, or 2.5%, whichever is higher. Earnings have beaten inflationlately to climb by 4% between May and July, and are anticipated to drive next year's gain.These are the three months used to calculate the forthcoming triple lock rise. That means an additional £460 in the coffers of individuals who receive the maximum amount.

SunLife's CEO Mark Screeton highlighted how this is insufficient to fund a comfortable retirement. According to the Pensions and Lifetime Savings Association, "A single person needs £14,400 a year just to achieve a minimum standard of living in retirement. A moderate standard requires £31,300.”

The worst part of it all is that not everyone is eligible for the entire new state pension. Approximately nine million people who retired before April 6, 2016, continue to receive the previous basic state pension.

They receive a maximum of £8,814 this year, which is £2,688 less than today's full new state pension. A 4% raise would bring that to little about £9,167 next April. That is an increase of £353. This is £107 lower than those who will receive the new state pension. The disparity between the two will have expanded yet again. It will cost an astounding £2,795.

Older State Pensioners Facing Widening Pension Gap and Benefit Losses

Many older pensioners receiving the minimal state pension feel mistreated. Especially when the gap between the basic and new state pensions would expand year after year.

Both pensions rise by the same the amount under the triple lock, but the new state pension has a greater starting point, so each year's increase is more valuable in financial terms. In the near future, the state pension gap will exceed £3,000 per year. And it will not end there.

Nonetheless, many people get more from the basic state pension. That's because they received supplementary state pensions, such as the state second pension (S2P) or the state-earnings-related pension system (SERPS).

Typically, older males perform better because they are more likely to work and pay national insurance (NI), which increases their supplementary entitlement. Older women, who were far less likely to work and contribute to NI, frequently survive on a poor pension.

Older people are not the only ones falling between the cracks. According to new data, many people receiving the new state pension are suffering because they did not make enough NI contributions or NI credits.

A mere fifty percent of the 3.5 million claimants of the new state pension receive the entire amount. An estimated 150,000 elderly receive less than £5,000 each year.

Sarah Pennells, a consumer finance specialist at Royal London, cited gaps in their NI record. "Some had low earnings, while others were either unemployed but didn't claim benefits, or worked abroad."

While many can make up the difference by applying for means-tested top-up Pension Credit, nearly a million people who are eligible do not do so.

In addition, chancellor Rachel Reeves has announced that they would no longer get their Winter Fuel Payment. This will cost them an additional £200, or £300 if they are over 80.

And when colder weather approaches, seniors will lose more than just governmental help. As I previously documented, some of the poorest retirees might lose up to £900 in cost-of-living allowances provided by the Conservatives but not by Labour. Losing these benefits might cancel out next year's triple lock increase, making millions of retirees feel worse in actual terms.

This comes ahead of a crucial vote as the Labour Party debates welfare cuts proposed by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). These cuts are expected to focus solely on Pension Credit recipients, a move that has sparked concern among members of Parliament.

Concerns Over Health and Welfare

Rachael Maskell, a Labour MP, voiced her apprehension in The Telegraph, particularly about the health risks for those impacted by these cuts. She remarked:

"We know that being cold leads to stroke, heart attacks, pneumonia, hyperthermia and so much more as the body wrestles to keep warm, and viruses prey on the frail."

She further warned that removing winter fuel payments for those in fuel poverty could result in a significant rise in preventable deaths during the colder months.

Internal Tensions and Growing Dissent

There is also growing unrest within the Labour Party. One MP expressed their dissatisfaction with the decision to maintain policies like the two-child benefit cap and the proposed cuts to winter fuel payments, saying:

"There's people right across the political divide who are very unhappy. They need to consider a u-turn over the winter fuel payments. I think this is going to ramp up, there's a lot of angry people out there."

Triple Lock and Government Support Measures

Commons leader Lucy Powell defended the government's position, attributing the tough decisions to the economic situation inherited from the previous administration. She noted that while the winter fuel payment is now subject to means testing, the government is committed to supporting pensioners through various measures:

• The Triple Lock increase, which raised state pensions by £900 this year.
• The Warm Home Discount, worth £150.
• The extension of the Household Support Fund.
• A nationwide campaign to ensure eligible pensioners receive Pension Credit.

Powell also highlighted that a parliamentary vote on the winter fuel payment is scheduled for next week, emphasizing the importance of debate and transparency:

"We are not afraid to have the debate about how we have got to where we have got to... because we respect Parliament and we respect doing things properly."

Significant Impact on Eligibility

The changes to the Winter Fuel Payment will drastically reduce the number of pensioners who qualify, from 11.4 million to just 1.5 million under the new criteria. This move is projected to save the Treasury around £1.4 billion this financial year, a key factor in the government's financial strategy.

Martin Lewis Urges State Pensioners to Claim Pension Credit Amid Winter Support Cuts

Many state pensioners are set to face a particularly challenging winter this year as the Winter Fuel Allowance transitioned to a means-tested benefit, so those who previously received the £300 handout would no longer be eligible.

With the £300 Cost of Living payment for pensioners being cut, many will face winter with less financial support. According to Express, Martin Lewis is urging people receiving a state pension to check if they qualify for Pension Credit to at least claim back £300 this winter through a single phone call.

Martin Lewis states: “It’s become more crucial than ever [to claim Pension Credit] because that Winter Fuel Payment that up to £300 payment that did to go every pensioner is now dependent on Pension Credit.

“So, Pension Credit, now I’ve been shouting about this here and everywhere and on my site for many years and it is chronically underclaimed.

“So the most important thing I can say to everybody watching who may be eligible is those over 66 but also right across society, is many of our most vulnerable people are not claiming this crucial payment and we collectively have a responsibility to try and let them know about it.”

State Pensioners Advised to Check Income Levels for Pension Credit Eligibility

The finance expert emphasized that single pensioners earning less than £235 per week and couples receiving less than £350 should check as they could be entitled to the payment.

Those who don't claim the state pension and who receive Pension Credit equivalent to the full amount would then get £218 a week, amounting to £11,300 a year.

He went on to say “If you’re a single pensioner and you have total weekly income under £218 a week, you will likely get it, if it’s under £235 a week you will maybe get it but it’s still worth checking.

“If you’re a couple - both of you are state pensioners living together - then my rule is you should check if it’s under £350 total weekly income.

“Under £333 you’re likely to get it, under £350 there’s a chance.

“If you’re a state pensioner and your partner isn’t a state pensioner you can’t get it this way but you may still be eligible if your partner is claiming Universal Credit.

“The most complicated thing is, total weekly income is any money from work, private pension, state pension and any benefits are included, plus if you have over £10,000 savings or investments, then for every £500 you are over that they count that as £1 a week income.

“Which actually works out at a 10 percent return, chance’d be a fine thing.”

Labour’s New Household Support Funding to Address Cost of Living Pressures

As reports BirminghamLive, Labour will supply an additional £421 million starting this October until the end of March. Work and Pensions Secretary, Liz Kendall MP, emphasized that this funding will be used to help those in need. She encouraged pensioners and others struggling with the cost of living over the colder months to contact their local council to explore available support options.

Regarding the extension to the Household Support Fund, Morgan Vine, Head of Policy and Influencing at Independent Age, stated: “Thankfully this fund will now be available through the winter months to support people of all ages in financial hardship with bills and other essential costs.”

Vine acknowledged the extension as a positive development but pointed out that “it won’t undo all of the potential damage that could be caused by means testing the Winter Fuel Payment, with millions of older people on a low income set to miss out on this vital support.” Vine also highlighted that people experiencing poverty in later life need “more money in their pocket now, as well as long-term strategic plans - such as the introduction of a national energy social tariff - to improve their future.”

Independent Age Urges UK Government to Reconsider Winter Fuel Payment Changes

In the short term, Independent Age is calling on the UK Government to “delay plans to tie the Winter Fuel Payment to Pension Credit as far too many older people in financial hardship will fall through the cracks.” Vine noted that “currently there are up to 1.2 million eligible older people missing out on the Pension Credit they’re entitled to.”

Additionally, there is concern about “the large group of older people that are just above the Pension Credit eligibility threshold,” who face having their income cut at a challenging time of year with rising energy prices.

“We are ready to work with the UK Government to help identify solutions and reach older people living in poverty. Nobody in later life that needs financial support should be left behind,” Vine concluded.

Changes to Winter Fuel Payment Eligibility

This winter marks a shift in eligibility for the Winter Fuel Payment; a payment that had previously been paid to all pensioners from 1997. The new regulations mean that the payment will only be made to those pensioners who meet the Pension Credit conditions, which leaves most of them high and dry.

Lewis estimated that out of about 880,000 pensioners who are entitled to claim pension credit support, around 500,000 are likely to miss out because they don’t claim the support. Not only will they forgo the Winter Fuel Payment, but they will also forfeit other incentives such as a free TV licence, reduction on the council tax, and help with energy bills.

How to Check Eligibility

Lewis urged pensioners to check with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) if they think they qualify for Pension Credit. This can be done online or over the phone. Individuals will need their National Insurance number and details of their income and savings on hand.

Pension Credit supplements a single pensioner’s weekly income to £218.15, or £332.95 for couples. Lewis advised that even pensioners earning slightly above these amounts should check their eligibility. For example, single pensioners earning under £235 or couples with a combined income of under £350 should still verify if they qualify.

Potential Impact of New Rules

The new eligibility requirements, announced by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, are part of broader government efforts to reduce a £22 billion deficit in public spending. Reeves expressed regret over the decision, attributing it to financial challenges inherited from the previous administration. However, many charities and advocates have criticized the narrow criteria, arguing it could leave numerous pensioners without essential winter support.

According to Lewis, the most vulnerable pensioners, particularly those with incomes under £11,400, are the only ones assured to receive the payment. He warned that many pensioners who rely on the Winter Fuel Payment to heat their homes during the colder months could face hardship, particularly those just above the Pension Credit threshold.

A significant issue is the chronic under-claiming of Pension Credit. Despite a recent government awareness campaign encouraging pensioners to check their eligibility, take-up rates have never exceeded two-thirds in the last decade.

Age UK estimates that around two million pensioners will lose access to the Winter Fuel Payment under the new rules, with nearly a million of these being slightly above the eligibility threshold.

Moreover, around 800,000 pensioners are entitled to Pension Credit but do not claim it, often due to lack of awareness, the complexity of the process, or stigma. Lewis noted that the recent increase in the Pension Credit threshold, which rose by 8.5% in April, makes it worthwhile for pensioners who were previously rejected to apply again.

Lewis’s Upcoming Meeting with the Chancellor

Martin Lewis, who has been vocal about the changes, is scheduled to meet with Chancellor Rachel Reeves next week to discuss the implications of the decision. In August, he urged ministers to reconsider, stressing that many pensioners who narrowly miss the income threshold will face significant challenges without the payment. He emphasized that the under-claiming of Pension Credit could leave those most in need in severe financial distress.

Charity organizations, such as Age UK, have echoed these concerns, warning that the new eligibility rules could leave millions of pensioners struggling to heat their homes during the winter months.

Winter Fuel Payment Cuts Prompt Expanded Support from Energy Provider

Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced on July 29 that the payment, which ranges from £100 to £300, will now only be provided to around 1.5 million state pensioners who receive means-tested benefits like Pension Credit.

The recent eligibility changes imply that millions of pensioners who previously received the Winter Fuel Payment last year won't receive it this winter. However, Octopus Energy is extending its £30 million assistance fund to cover this winter, offering support to state pensioners who no longer qualify for the payment.

Octopus Energy’s ‘Octo Assist’ fund has already supported over 80,000 customers, including many pensioners. The financial aid is personalized to each person's situation, and applications for help can be submitted year-round.

Those who apply through the ‘Octo Assist’ fund can access discretionary credits of £50, £100, or £200.

The transfer of Winter Fuel Payment responsibilities for Scottish pensioners was planned for this year, but the rollout of the Pension Age Winter Payment has been delayed until 2025/26. Last month, the Scottish Government asserted that the new eligibility rules will also apply Scottish pensioners.

Octopus Energy Extends Support for Pensioners Amid Winter Fuel Payment Changes

Octopus Energy is also emphasizing that its rates are consistently set below the price cap, which is scheduled to rise by 10 percent on October 1. This approach saves customers from an estimated £150 million in additional energy costs each year.

Octopus Energy also provides a range of support services, including free electric blankets for customers, loans of heat loss cameras to detect and fix draughts, and personalized in-person energy-saving advice from energy helpers. Additionally, they offer 'savings sessions,' where customers can reduce their energy costs by using less power during peak times. Over the last two winters, more than 2 million participants have saved a total of £10.5 million through these sessions.

Greg Jackson, Founder of Octopus Energy Group, declared: “At times like this, we can’t expect the government to do everything - companies need to work hard on affordability too. That’s why we’ve expanded our Octo Assist fund to introduce extra support for the pensioners who need it most.

“There’s a lot of government and other support for pensioners but many don’t realise it - government data shows one in three pensioners eligible for pension credits are not claiming, so we’re training our team to help with this too."

The energy provider's advisers can also assist people in checking for unclaimed benefits such as Pension Credit.

Winter Fuel Payments Cut: Thousands Sign Petition Against Change

According to the Treasury the proposed changes would reduce the number of pensioners getting Winter Fuel Payments from 11.4 million to 1.5 million, resulting in just under 10 million missing out.

The change is expected to save £1.5 billion per year. However, Age UK has petitioned the government to reverse the decision, citing the potential impact on millions of pensioners' ability to heat their homes this winter. The petition has currently obtained over 453,000 signatures.

The petition states: “Cutting the Winter Fuel Payment this winter, with virtually no notice and no compensatory measures to protect poor and vulnerable pensioners, is the wrong policy decision. Millions of struggling pensioners won’t receive up to £300 they rely on to pay their bills.

“We believe as many as 2 million pensioners who find paying their energy bills a real stretch will be seriously hit by this cut: Those on low incomes who just miss out on Pension Credit, those with high energy needs because of disability or illness, the 800,000 who don’t receive the Pension Credit for which they are eligible.

“This cut is happening in England and Wales. In Scotland and NI decisions about the payment are devolved, and not yet clear, but it's likely that the UK Government will no longer provide the money to cover the cost of what pensioners in those nations receive now.

“The Government should halt their proposed change to the Winter Fuel Payment and think again.”

Who Can Receive Winter Fuel Payments this Year?

This winter, only those receiving Pension Credit or certain means-tested benefits will qualify for Winter Fuel Payments. If you live in England or Wales, you must be over 66 years old and receiving one of the following benefits to be eligible:

• Income Support
• Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance
• Pension Credit
• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
• Universal Credit

This implies that if you claim the benefits below, you will not qualify this winter:

• Attendance Allowance
• Bereavement Support Payment
• Carer's Allowance
• Disability Living Allowance
• New style Employment and Support Allowance
• Personal Independence Payment
• State Pension

Millions of Households at Risk of Losing Up to £8,400 in Benefits Due to Upcoming Deadlines

With the looming deadlines, millions of households risk losing up to £8,400 in benefits if they do not take immediate action. Families are therefore encouraged to claim these benefits immediately to ensure their continuous support in the coming years:

Child Benefit

Parents whose 16-19 year-old child is pursuing education or training have until Saturday to inform HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) or risk having their Child Benefit payments cut.

This benefit is worth £102.40 per month for a single child and nearly £170 for two children, with an increase of around £67 per month for each additional child, and there is no limit to the number of children you can claim for until you go above the Benefit Cap.

Households with two children both in education, this can total £4,080 over two years. For households with two children who are both pursuing their studies for two years, this can amount to £4,080 within two years.

Even with just one child, 24 months of Child Benefit payments would total £2,457.60. If the child pursued a three-year course to the age of 19, the cost would be £3,686.40. For two children enrolled in a three-year study, the benefit can total £6,120. If this deadline is missed, thousands of pounds that could have been used to pay for educational fees could be lost.

Tax-Free Childcare

Households are also being urged to apply for a Tax-Free Childcare payout of up to £2,000 from HMRC by the deadline on Saturday, August 31.

Starting in September 2024, qualifying working parents with a child under the age of nine months will be entitled to 15 hours of childcare support. This is on top of the universal 15 hours, for a total of 30 hours of childcare when the child reaches the age of three or four.

This programme enables parents to get up to £2,000 annually per kid to help with childcare expenses, with the government contributing £2 for every £8 placed into an online account.

Winter Fuel Payment

The Winter Fuel Payment helps people with pensions deal with heating expenditures over the winter, offering from £100 to £300 to individuals who meet the eligibility requirements.

Formerly available to all UK residents over the state pension age, this year's payout is now limited to state pensioners who receive means-tested benefits such as Pension Credit. This reform, announced by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, will likely impact about 10 million people while saving the public purse £1.4 billion.

The qualifying week for the DWP's Winter Fuel Payment is September 16 through September 22. Those who are ineligible during this time will lose their winter benefits.

To receive the Winter Fuel Payment, people must check if they qualify for these benefits and submit an application before the qualifying week. Pension Credit is notably neglected, with an estimated 800,000 more people who are entitled but have not applied.

Adding together the highest sums, households in Britain might lose around £8,400 in benefits if they fail to apply before the deadlines for Child Benefit, Tax-Free Childcare, and Winter Fuel Payment.

A Major Shift in Winter Fuel Payment Eligibility

The move that indicates the first amendment in over two decades regarding this benefit has restricted access to Winter Fuel Payment – a vital lifeline for many elderly people grappling with heating costs. Introduced in 1997, this payment had provided sums of money up to £300 per household; however, now it is only offered to those on Pension Credit.

This decision was spearheaded by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, who was attempting to address what she termed a “multi-billion pound black hole” in public finances. Admittedly, she admitted that it was not an easy choice but maintained that such change was needed so as not surpass their expenditure plans and available funds.

The government’s awareness campaign comes as part of the annual Pension Credit Week of Action, set to kick off in September. The DWP has described Pension Credit as a “passport” to a broader range of financial assistance beyond just an income top-up.

In addition to the Winter Fuel Payment, eligible pensioners could access benefits such as Housing Benefit, support with mortgages, and even a free TV licence.

The meaning is direct: pensioners can apply for the backdated Pension Credit until December 21 and still get the Winter Fuel Payment this year. The DWP is to concentrate its efforts on identifying households that may not be accessing this important benefit with a view of debunking myths and misconceptions about the Pension Credit application process.

The Reality for Many Pensioners: Too Little, Too Late?

However, advocacy groups have concerns over the latest alterations. According to Age UK, the prime organization working with older people in the United Kingdom, almost one million pensioners are excluded from the Winter Fuel Payment despite having an income of only £14,000 per annum.

This happens because there is a harsh eligibility cut-off, which means that even small amounts of earnings above this threshold disqualify people from receiving Pension Credit (and thus Winter Fuel Payment).

Age UK started off a campaign against Reeves’ amendments, amassing nearly 420,000 petitions. Caroline Abrahams, charity director at Age UK, expressed her support for the government’s campaigns aimed at raising awareness but was doubtful about their effectiveness.

“We’re delighted the Government is encouraging older people to claim Pension Credit,” she said. “However, we fear it may not be enough to create the rapid increase in take-up needed to secure pensioners’ entitlement to the Winter Fuel Payment before the cold weather sets in.”

What Can You Do?

Pensioners who are unsure whether they qualify for Pension Credit could find out and receive not only weekly income, but also essential support throughout the winter time. The deadline is fast approaching; with winter coming, it is now the right time to act.

£200 Winter Fuel Payment for Eligible Pensioners

This year, the Winter Fuel Payment will only be available to those with the lowest incomes. Previously, all those over 65 were eligible for the payment, but the new Labour Government has changed the criteria.

It has insisted that many higher-income pensioners do not require the payout and that assistance should be directed towards those in greatest need.

Those born before September 22, 1958, will be eligible for the £200 Winter Fuel Payment if they qualify for other benefits such as Universal Credit, Pension Credit, and Income Support.

People over the age of 80 may be eligible for up to £300. The Winter Fuel Payment is intended to assist more deprived pensioners with their energy expenditures during the colder winter months, when they will be need to use their heating more frequently.

The funds are typically distributed automatically to people who meet the requirements and are expected to arrive between mid-November and the holiday season. Some organisations have criticised the government's plan to reduce contributions this year.

Winter Fuel Payment Cuts Draw Backlash

While the wealthiest pensioners would no longer get payments, advocates believe that many people who are not very wealthy but no longer meet the threshold will lose out. Age UK has started a petition opposing the government's measures.

It stated: “The Government has announced that the Winter Fuel Payment will become means-tested in England and Wales. As many as two million pensioners who badly need the money to stay warm this winter will not receive it.

“Sign our petition to save the Winter Fuel Payment for the poorest pensioners.”

State Pensioners Can Boost Income with Pension Credit

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) offers Pension Credit, a frequently underclaimed benefit that could increase eligible individuals' income by hundreds of pounds.

This benefit includes two components: Guarantee Credit and Savings Credit. It is available to those who are of state pension age (currently 66) or older and have a low income.

Guarantee Credit is the major component ensuring someone's weekly income is increased to a certain minimum level.
For 2024, this equals  £218.15 a week for single applicants and £332.95 a week for couples.

In the meantime, Savings Credit offers “an extra boost” of up to £17.01 a week for singles and £19.04 a week for couples. This additional payment totals as much as £990.08 per year.

Savings Credit is accessible to anyone who attained the state pension age before April 2016 and saved for retirement through personal or workplace pensions.

People who do not receive the Guarantee Credit portion of Pension Credit may still be eligible for Savings Credit, so it is critical to file a claim. However, the benefit must be claimed; it is not payable automatically.

Martin Lewis Highlights Pension Credit Claims Gap and Application Process

Martin Lewis's Money Saving Expert website reports: “More than three million households are eligible for Pension Credit, but it's estimated that over 800,000 don't claim – in many cases because they don't realise they could be entitled to it.”

It further states: “[Pension Credit] is NOT automatic so you MUST claim – here's how. You can apply via Gov.uk if you've already claimed your state pension, otherwise phone the Pension Service on 0800 99 1234 (or the Northern Ireland Pension Centre on 0808 100 6165). You can backdate it for three months, so the quicker you check, the quicker you'll benefit.”

On Good Morning Britain, the financial expert noted: “It is a national tragedy that up to one million pensioners are missing out on this rather substantial entitlement in many cases.

“Many of those pensioners have been paying into the system for years and what Pension Credit is meant to do, is top people’s income up so if their state pension or other income isn’t enough, they still have a reasonable standard of living.”

Those claiming Pension Credit may also qualify for other forms of assistance, including the Government's Winter Fuel Payment. This benefit assists seniors with heating expenditures during the winter, paying between £100 and £300 to individuals who meet the eligibility requirements.

The benefit was previously provided for every pensioner in England and Wales born before a specific date. However, Chancellor Rachel Reeves declared that starting this year, only those receiving means-tested benefits, like Pension Credit, will be eligible.

Pension Credit recipients may also be eligible for other forms of financial assistance, including council tax discounts and free TV licences.

People can visit the website here or phone the Pension Credit assistance line at 0800 99 1234 to check whether they are eligible for additional benefits.

Upcoming Payments to Support Households and Pensioners Amid Winter Budget Strain

According to the latest forecast, those on the standard tariff who pay by Direct Debit could see their annual bills rise from £1,568 to £1,762, an increase of £194.

The winter months usually strain household budgets more, and this year, there will be no cost of living payments. Additionally, around 10 million pensioner households will miss out on the annual Winter Fuel Payments, which typically range from £200 to £300.

This change comes after the UK Government decided to limit the payments to those over 66 who are on means-tested benefits like Pension Credit.

The Scottish Government has also implemented this change in eligibility and postponed the introduction of its replacement, the Pension Age Winter Heating Payment, until the winter of 2025/26.

Yet, there are six, different one-off payments to be given out to households, disabled individuals and people over State Pension age before the year's end. Most of these lump sums are meant to assist with climbing heating bills. Many benefit claimants are also set to get a ‘bonus’ and an additional payment for unpaid carers.

Winter Fuel Payment: £100-£300

Most of these payments are automatically provided in November or December, those eligible receive letters including information about the exact amount they will get before receiving their payment.

The change with the greatest impact on senior households this winter is the adjustment to the eligibility criteria for the one-off payment.

This payment ranges from £100 and £300, based on the recipient's age and home conditions. Notably, only those born before September 23, 1944 are eligible for the entire £300.

People must be over the age of 66 and receive a means-tested benefit, such as Pension Credit. Those over the State Pension age who get an income-related payment during the week of September 16-22, 2024, will get the payment automatically. This contribution is tax-free and does not affect any other benefits.

Eligible pensioner households will receive letters in October or November with details on how much Winter Fuel Payment they qualify for.

Child Winter Heating Payment: £251.50

The Child Winter Heating Payment of £251.50 supports Scottish households with disabled children or youngsters under the age of 19. This payment is meant to help families with extra winter costs.

Payments usually start in November, similar to last year. Qualifying families will receive a letter before the payment is sent.

To be eligible, families must be receiving certain disability benefits, such as the highest rate of Child Disability Payment, Disability Living Allowance for Children, or enhanced rates of Personal Independence Payment or Adult Disability Payment. Eligibility is based on being in receipt of these benefits during the week of September 16-22, 2024.

Winter Heating Payment: £58.75

According to Social Security Scotland, payments will be issued from mid-December, allowing the majority of qualifying families to receive the payment before the end of February 2025. If you qualify, you will get a letter from Social Security Scotland before they provide the payment.

This payment can only be claimed by people on an income-related benefit residing in Scotland and switched to the £25 Cold Weather Payment provided by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) two years ago. Unlike the DWP benefit, this one is not based on a prolonged period of cold weather in a specific region, but rather a yearly, one-off payment provided regardless of the temperature.

Warm Home Discount: £150 Paid to Energy Providers

The DWP hands this payment directly to energy suppliers. It is then added as credit to customers' accounts.

If you happen to be a credit customer the £150 will arrive on your electricity account and if you’re on Pay As You Go or Prepayment, a voucher that you can use to boost your meter will be sent to you.

The Warm Home Discount Scheme is meant to help those on a low income and on certain income-related benefits, including: Universal Credit or Pension Credit.

Carer Allowance Supplement: £288.60

These are usually paid automatically in December. Social Security Scotland will send out letters beforehand to confirm who may qualify for the payments.

The payments are administered by Social Security Scotland and made separately from Carer's Allowance. To qualify for the next payment in December, people need to be in receipt of either Carer’s Allowance from the DWP, or the newly launched Carer Support Payment from Social Security Scotland, on October 7, 2024.

Christmas Bonus: £10

This bonus is frequently provided automatically in early December. It is a one-off, tax-free £10 payment made to those who qualify for the State Pension or those who claim other benefits during the qualifying week.

No application is required in order to get the extra £10 as it automatically goes into the account where you usually get your State Pension or benefit payment.

Triple Lock Pension Cuts Leave Millions with 11.50 Pounds Less Each Month

Labour leader Keir Starmer has promised to keep the extremely popular boost mechanism in place for the duration of the current Parliament's five-year term, as reported by the Express.

The triple lock has been heavily critisized in recent years for giving state pensioners two large rises in a row.

In April 2023, they were given 10.1% based on inflation, while this April they received 8.5%, in line with earnings growth. This assisted millions cope with the cost-of-living crisis and softened the impact from previous PM Rishi Sunak's contested move of halting the triple lock in 2021.

Each year's triple lock hike is based on consumer price inflation from September the previous year and earnings growth over three months from May to July.

Inflation is currently around 2%, but earnings rose at a faster rate of 5.7% in the three months to May this year.

The higher earnings figure is expected to apply when the 2025 increase is set. However, earnings for the three months to June have dropped sharply to 4.5%, which is a significant hit, especially if it continues in July.

This would mean that millions of people receiving the new state pension would receive £138 less than they had expected. That equates to £11.50 per month in income loss.

Pensioners Hit by Lower Triple Lock Increase and Winter Fuel Payment Cuts

Helen Morrissey, Hargreaves Lansdown's head of retirement analysis, stated in June last year that NHS employees received large one-time bonuses.

Because they are not receiving them this June, the month's wage growth figure decreased.

Morrissey said retirees will still enjoy the increase, but warned that "with many still reeling from the news that their winter fuel payment is to be taken away, it won't be quite the boost they hoped for."

According to Aegon pensions head Steven Cameron, this is a second hit for seniors after Labour chancellor Rachel Reeves' decision to cut the winter fuel payment.

"This will be a disappointment to state pensioners who might otherwise have received a higher increase."

Cameron warned that in real terms, pensioners will be no better off by £517. "Any increase in 'real' terms will be significantly dented by the loss of their winter fuel allowance."

This is important for the 12.7 million State Pensioners across Great Britain because it will affect the pension increase coming in April under the Triple Lock policy. The earnings growth data used for this adjustment is from May to July, and the official numbers won’t be available until September, as reported by the Daily Record.

State Pensioners Could See Weekly Boost Under Triple Lock

Under the Triple Lock policy, the New and Basic State Pensions are increased each year based on whichever is highest among the average earnings growth from May to July, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for the year up to September, or a guaranteed 2.5 percent increase.

According to the most recent wage growth figures, the full New State Pension might climb by about £10 each week, from £221.20 to £231.15, and since the payment is normally delivered every four weeks, this amounts to £924.60.

Furthermore, the full Basic State Pension may increase by £7.60 every week, from £169.50 to £177.15, or £708.60 each four-week payment period.

Given that inflation is now at 2.0%, pension experts affirm that pay data would most likely be used to justify the increase.

Helen Morrissey, head of retirement analysis, Hargreaves Lansdown, stated: “Wage growth remains robust, so it’s highly likely that next month’s figure will be the one used to uprate State Pension under the Triple Lock. This month’s figure comes in at 4.5 per cent — way down on last month’s 5.7 per cent, but it has been affected by the payment of one-off bonuses in the NHS last year.

“If the figure were to remain the same next month, then we could see the full New State Pension get a boost of around £517 — taking it to approx. £12, 019 per year.”

The retirement expert went on to say: “Such a rise will be welcomed by pensioners still emerging from the cost of living crisis. However, with many still reeling from the news that their Winter Fuel Payment is to be taken away, it won’t be quite the boost that many hoped for.”

She also explained how keeping Personal Allowance at £12,570 is set to bring a larger number of pensioners closer to the tax threshold.

Ms Morissey clarified: “There’s another looming challenge — frozen tax thresholds mean that the full New State Pension is creeping ever closer to tax paying territory and a similar rise next year could see it surpass it. With these freezes in place until 2028, there’s every chance we could see pensioners solely reliant on the State Pension finding part of it is making its way to the taxman.”

NHS Bonus and Winter Fuel Cuts Impact State Pension Increases

According to the latest data from the Hargreaves Lansdown Savings and Resilience Barometer, only 38% of households are currently on pace for a decent retirement income, indicating that there's a long road ahead.

Dealing with the consequences of long-term health issues on the workforce will be a significant task for the recently elected Labour government.

Steven Cameron, Pensions Director at Aegon, stated that the NHS bonus paid the previous year is expected to “suppress the figure due to be announced next month” but added that it is “highly likely that the increase will be based on earnings growth”.

He further stated: “The specific figure used for determining the Triple Lock is the year-on-year increase in earnings for the period ending May to July 2024, which will be published next month in mid-September. Barring any big fluctuations when July’s earnings figures are added in, this suggests State Pensioners may receive around a 4.5 per cent increase.

“The June 2023 NHS one-off bonus will also affect the May to July 2024 calculation, which will be a disappointment to state pensioners who might otherwise have received a higher increase.”

He also noted that millions of pensioners are likely to miss out on £200 in Winter Fuel Payments this year, stating: “While next April’s State Pension increase is likely to be higher than current inflation, any increase in ‘real’ terms will be significantly dented by the loss of the Winter Fuel Payment.”

Now, only those who are in receipt of Pension Credit or other means tested benefits will get this benefit. These receiving Pension Credit will receive £200 or if they are above 80 years old they will receive £300.

According to the Treasury’s estimates, these changes would reduce the number of recipients from 11.4 million pensioners to about 1.5 million, thus leaving nearly 10 million ineligible. Consequently, this measure might save around £1.5 billion per year by making payments better targeted.

Age UK has warned that millions of households may be without heating this winter as a result. Therefore, they began a petition that so far has been supported by over two hundred and sixty thousand signatures requesting the Government to reconsider.

The petition states: “Reducing the Winter Fuel Payment with little notice and no protective measures for vulnerable pensioners is misguided. Many pensioners, who depend on up to £300 for their bills, will be affected. Around 2 million pensioners struggling with energy costs, including those just above the Pension Credit threshold and those with high energy needs, will be seriously impacted.”

Energy Bill Increase for Pensioners

More than 50 organisations have written an open letter to Chancellor Rachel Reeves expressing their disagreement with her decision on limiting the winter fuel allowances. The End Fuel Poverty Coalition cautioned that elderly citizens not getting assistance based on need might see their energy costs rise up by fifteen percent during winters.

Their letter to the Chancellor states: “Restricting payments to a small minority will force millions into cold, damp homes.”

Martin Lewis Condemns Decision on Winter Fuel Payment

Martin Lewis, the Money Saving Expert, has also denounced “too narrow with the winter we have coming”. He observed that the cap on energy prices may go up by 10% in October, thereby keeping bills high all through the winter, and making them unaffordable to many.

Lewis argued that while financial constraints might be used to justify ending universal payments, this is just too harsh. The people who will suffer most are those who are just above the benefit thresholds.

In addition, he emphasized that there was a need to reach out to inform and help 800,000 persons eligible for Pension Credit who have not been receiving it.

“Pension Credit is a vital gateway to other benefits,” he said, “and with its link to the winter fuel payment, it's crucial to minimise the number of those missing out.”

This move is aimed to reduce some financial burden caused by increased costs of living through giving out £150 off energy bills among those who are most vulnerable pensioners. Most of the time, this discount is automatically added to one’s account and works as a deposit that increases bank balances.

Cash Boost for Pensioners: Warm Home Discount Returns

In terms of energy suppliers’ prerogative, the discount period may be launched any time between November and March. The beneficiaries will consist majorly of those individuals who are receiving either Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit or Savings Credit element, Universal Credit or Housing Benefit.

Low-income families struggling with high power prices can also apply for help from this program besides retirees. Between November and January, most eligible households can expect to be informed by mail on how services can be provided to them.

The Warm Home Discount will be reintroduced this winter after the Labour Party has already confirmed, because of a debate on reducing Winter Fuel Payments. Currently, these payments are only made to those with the lowest incomes in the older generation and not all.

According to Age UK: “The Warm Home Discount is a one-off payment of £150 to help with the cost of energy during the winter. It's designed to make things a bit easier if you're living on a low income or pension.

“If your electricity supplier is part of the Warm Home Discount scheme then you don't need to apply for it – you'll get the payment automatically if you or your partner receive the Guarantee Credit portion of Pension Credit, or another qualifying benefit, and have high energy costs.”

DWP to Offer Additional Support to State Pensioners This Winter

State pensioners are set to receive the Cold Weather Payment, along with the Warm Home Discount provided by the DWP

You may qualify for a £25 Cold Weather Payment if you’re currently receiving Pension Credit, Income Support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) and income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) or Universal Credit or Support for Mortgage Interest, as reported by the Birmingham Live.

You’ll typically receive Cold Weather Payments if you get Pension Credit too. You’ll be eligible for a payment if the prevailing temperature in your region is forecast to be, 0 degrees Celsius or lower 7 for a period of seven days.

You will get £25 for each seven-day period of extremely cold weather between November 1, 2024, and March 31, 2025. The Warm Home Discount offers a one-off £150 discount on your electric bill payment. However, the money is not given directly to you; rather, it is added to your electricity bill by your supplier. The scheme's eligibility changes according to your location.

Eligibility Criteria for Energy Discounts in England, Wales, and Scotland

If you reside in England and Wales, you may qualify for the Guarantee Credit component of Pension Credit or have a low income and high energy bills.

If you live in Scotland, you are eligible if you receive the Guarantee Credit component of Pension Credit or make small earnings, and fulfil your energy supplier's eligibility criteria for the scheme.

If you qualify, the discount will be provided automatically. You will only need to submit an application if you have a low income in Scotland.

The discount is also valid if you use a prepayment meter. In this situation, your power supplier can show you how to get the discount if you are eligible; you may for instance get a voucher that can be used to refill your meter.

Thousands of pensioners who lost access to the Winter Fuel Payment due to a previous overhaul may now be eligible to receive it again.

Winter Fuel Payment Eligibility May Impact Pension Credit Uptake

According to analysts, if councils become in charge of the task of tracking down those who qualify for means-tested benefits, more people would be engaged and encouraged to apply for Pension Credit, a benefit that entitles individuals for the payment, reports the Birmingham Live.

Policy in Practice supports controlling the Winter Fuel Payment to ensure it does not go to wealthier retirees, yet more needs to be done to increase the number of people who qualify for it.

According to Chancellor Rachel Reeves, the scheme will now only be offered to those in pension-age households who get any of these five means-tested benefits: Pension Credit, Universal Credit, Income Support, income-based Jobseeker's Allowance or income-related Employment and Support Allowance.

Simply qualifying for a State Pension or any other benefit is not sufficient to ensure your eligibility.

The main concern, however, is the poor uptake of Pension Credit, which is a top-up payment for those receiving a low or no State Pension. According to the social policy data analytics organisation, around one million families are set to miss out as a result of the adjustments proposed to the Winter Fuel Payment.

According to the data, approximately 850,000 pensioners are eligible for but do not claim Pension Credit, while another projected 130,000 older people would miss out because their income is only £500 higher than the Pension Credit eligibility criteria. The group says they would be better off with a lesser wage and collecting Pension Credit and the Winter Fuel Payment.

Pension Credit and Other Benefits Could Add Up to £9,665 for Eligible Pensioners

As indicated by Policy in Practice, Pension Credit is valued at £2,677 per year on average and can be used to pay for other household expenses and obligations. According to the report, Housing Benefit is worth an around £4,338 and Council Tax Support is worth approximately £1,670.

The benefit also offers a free TV licence, which would otherwise cost £170. There are other possible price reductions on broadband (£200) and water (£160), as well as eligibility for the Warm Home Discount (£150) and Winter Fuel Payment (£300). The group reckons that all of this adds out to an average of £9,665.

Deven Ghelani, founder of Policy in Practice stated: “Taking the Winter Fuel Payment from better-off pensioners is one of the few reasonable ways to save money in social security, particularly as they benefit from the triple lock. However, there really is no excuse for the shockingly low levels of Pension Credit take-up, as many older people continue to struggle with the cost of living.

“The Secretary of State should prioritise simplicity in the benefit system and promote proactive support for people. The DWP could start by sharing data with local authorities and widening legislation to allow for automated take-up campaigns for benefits such as Pension Credit. If Universal Credit data were shared more widely, we could boost incomes while lowering administration costs.”

According to the group, campaigns led by local governments can help to close the participation gap. It stated that a recent London-wide program resulted in over 2,300 households claiming Pension Credit while they were previously unaware they were eligible.

Locally-led initiatives were shown to be more than twice as successful as national campaigns, the report stated. The project is increasing, with over 60 councils participating this year to raise consciousness regarding Attendance Allowance, free school meals, Healthy Start and social tariffs.

Age UK Campaigns to Protect Winter Fuel Payments Amid Controversial Changes

Following the announcement on July 29, the charity began a campaign aimed at protecting millions of vulnerable State Pensioners who could lose out on essential heating support this year.

The one-off payment is valued between £100 and £300, but in the last two years it has been worth far more — up to £600 — given the inclusion of the Pensioner Cost of Living Payment.

The £300 Winter Fuel Payment is exclusively available to those over 80, whereas the majority of pensioners get £200.

The 'Save the Winter Fuel Payment for Struggling Pensioners' campaign by Age UK warns that qualifying changes will affect millions of older people who rely on financial support to cope with rising winter prices.

According to the Daily Record, State Pensioners who receive Pension Credit or other income-related benefits are the only ones who will automatically qualify for annual, one-off payments that range from £100 and £300 from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

You can view, sign or share the petition on the Age UK Website.

Ofgem is expected to reveal the new energy price cap before the end of August. Energy experts are anticipating a 10% rise on the basic tariff for many families beginning October 1 that will last until the end of the year.

Age UK declared: “We strongly oppose the means-testing of the Winter Fuel Payment because it means as many as 2 million pensioners who badly need the money to stay warm this winter will not receive it and will be in serious trouble as a result.

“Means-testing the Winter Fuel Payment, with no notice and no compensatory measures to protect poor and vulnerable pensioners, is the wrong policy choice, and one that will potentially jeopardise the health as well as the finances of millions of older people this winter — the last thing either they or the NHS needs.”

Recently updated guidance on GOV.UK says eligible pensioner households are set to receive letters in October or November revealing the amount of Winter Fuel Payment they will get.

The majority of those who qualify will be paid in November or December. The payment will be deposited on the same bank account the State Pension or other benefits are paid into.

Eligibility for Winter Fuel Payments

Anyone born before September 23, 1958 can get a Winter Fuel Payment this year

Recipients must also reside in England or Wales and receive one of these benefits:

• Pension Credit
• Universal Credit
• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
• Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
• Income Support

Who Does Not Qualify for the Payment?

You won't qualify for Winter Fuel Payment if you:

• Reside in Scotland.
• Have been hospitalized and received free treatment for over a year.
• If your UK visa specifies that you can’t claim public funds.
• Were incarcerated during the whole qualifying period of September 16 to 22, 2024.

How Much You Can Get for Winter Fuel Payments

If you are single or live alone:

• £200 for those born between September 23, 1944 and September 22, 1958
• £300 if you were born before September 23, 1944

If you live with your partner

If you and your partner jointly claim any of the benefits, one of you will get a payment of either:

• £200 if both of you were born between September 23, 1944 and September 22, 1958
• £300 if one or both of you were born before September 23, 1944

If you live in a residential care facility

If you qualify, you will get either:

• £100 if you were born between September 23, 1944 and September 22, 1958
• £150 if you were born before September 23, 1944

This week, the WFP was altered by the Labour Government significantly and now pays anything between £100 and £300 to some pensioners.

As of this winter, only those on Pension Credit or other means-tested benefits will qualify, leaving about 10 million pensioners who would not benefit from it based on their perceived wealth.

Impact of Winter Fuel Payment Cuts on Vulnerable Pensioners

Age UK has warned that as many as two million older people who are already struggling with escalating energy bills will be affected adversely by these cuts. This includes key groups such as:

• Low-income pensioners just above the Pension Credit threshold.
• Individuals with high energy needs due to disability or chronic illness.
• Approximately 800,000 eligible pensioners who do not currently receive Pension Credit.

Uncertainty in Scotland

The future of WFP in Scotland is uncertain as its devolution is imminent this year. Age UK is worried about whether the UK government will choose to withdraw funding for the WFP, thereby undermining what Scottish seniors could expect.

The petition asserts: “Cutting the Winter Fuel Payment this winter, with virtually no notice and no compensatory measures to protect poor and vulnerable pensioners, is the wrong policy decision. Millions of struggling pensioners won’t receive up to £300 they rely on to pay their bills.”

Chancellor Rachel Reeves has been told to look again at the plans. Speaking on BBC Breakfast’s Stephen Flynn (SNP leader at Westminster) stated that no final decision had yet been made about the New Pension Age Winter Heating payment which was being planned to replace Winter Fuel Payment (WFP).

Eligibility Criteria

Retirement credits are available to UK residents aged sixty-six and above for at least one day during the eligible week in September (22-28) and who receive Pension Credit, Universal Credit, Income Support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance or income-related Employment and Support Allowance.

There is a calculator that can be used by those who are unsure of whether they qualify for the pension credit.

State Pension Recipients Can Get Up to £1,629 this August

People aiming to improve their financial situation or simply make ends meet are encouraged to claim all the benefits they qualify for.

To begin with, anyone who qualifies for the state pension can get a weekly payment worth up to £221, or a monthly £884. To ensure you are eligible for state pension payments, you must have reached state pension age, accumulated a minimum number of National Insurance contributions, and not already receiving any other type of pension benefits.

In addition to this, you may also claim a free TV Licence, valued at £14 a month. If you, your partner or anyone in your family has reached the age of 75 or over and receives Pension Credit, you could significantly cut your annual TV Licence costs to zero, saving £169.50 per year or about  £14 per month.

Boost Your Monthly Income Through Pension Credit

If you're looking to boost your monthly income, Pension Credit is a great option to consider. If you’re single, and your total weekly income is no more than £218, or £332 if you have a partner, it’s advisable to claim pension credit to increase your income by £75 weekly or £300 monthly.

Pension Credit can also qualify you for a reduction in Council Tax. This can cover your whole council tax bill, or a part of it.

In England the average council tax bill is £131 per month, however many families, especially those living in larger houses, will have to pay more than that. The increases because council tax rates are based on property values set in the early nineties.

Pension Credit can also make you eligible for the Housing Benefit, which can help you earn thousands of pounds each year. If you are renting your house and get any amount of guarantee credit, you could qualify for the full amount of housing benefit available to you.

No specific amount has been set, but this could cover your entire rental bill, amounting to over £200 a month.

If you receive guarantee credit along with your Pension Credit, you can also apply for free dental care, which is valued at over £1,000 per year, or about £80 a month.

Pension Credit claimants can also get unlock some special phone and broadband deals that could save them £20 off their bill.

Overall, this amounts to £1,629 worth of benefits you may qualify for this August.

This payment used to be worth £300 but increased to £600 in recent years due to inflation. It is no longer given to all people who are over State Pension Age, just those claiming means tested benefit and Pension Credit. Pensioners can still take advantage of subsidy schemes that include these other discounts and freebies worth up to £11,600.

A Government spokesperson explained:

""This Government is committed to pensioners - protecting the triple lock, keeping energy bills low through our Warm Homes Plan, and cutting NHS waiting lists – bringing real stability to people’s lives. We said we would be honest with the public and, given the dire state of the public finances we have inherited, this government must take difficult decisions to fix the foundations of the economy."

Full List of Discounts and Freebies Available to Pensioners

Pension Credit — £3,900

Pension Credit funds older people on low incomes above state pension age; some 800,000 out of 2.5 million eligible Britons do not claim it. No minimum pension qualification is a requirement for this aid. This supplement helps old folks meet living expenses each day by topping up their allowance with £218.15 (£332.95 for couples).

This year’s qualifying week runs from Monday, 16 September to Sunday, 22 September, during which time people must claim Pension Credit in order that they may qualify for their Winter Fuel Payment.

Attendance Allowance — £5,644

Attendance allowance supports those who are over the state pension age and need extra support because of poor health or disability. It comes in two parts, either £72.65 or £108.55 per week depending on one’s own circumstances, which means that it would total up to £434.20 every four weeks or even £5,644.60 in a year.

The lower rate is for those who require help during the day or night, while the higher rate is payable when someone needs to help both day and night, or they have been diagnosed with a terminal illness.

National Insurance Cut — £1,394

When people reach state pension age, there is no need to pay any national insurance (NI) even if they are still working. This can result in significant savings being made. For example, an employee earning £30,000 per annum could save £1,394.40 in tax year 2024/25 assuming that the current NI threshold remains at£12,570 p.a.

Free Prescriptions — £119

Those aged below 16 years and above 59 years as well as full-time students who are between 16–18 years old are entitled to free prescriptions.

In addition, pregnant women; women who have just given birth having appeared at a doctor’s office within several months must also be exempted from this payment by their GP provided that such individuals receive certain benefits including:

• Income support
• Income-based jobseeker’s allowance
• Income-related employment and support allowance
• Pension Credit guarantee credit

Universal Credit claimants can also qualify if they earned no more than £435 (£935 if they feature child elements or limited work capabilities).

Free Bus Pass — £128

People who have reached the age of 66 and are eligible for a state pension will be given free bus travel. In London, residents are entitled to free transport on various modes in the city when they turn 60.

Free TV Licence — £169

Older persons aged over seventy-five years get a TV licence at zero charge, which is necessary for watching live television and streaming iPlayer service by BBC. Nevertheless, this must be accompanied by the receipt of Pension Credit.

Discounted Rail Fare — £142

Senior Railcard allows elderly people to obtain subsidized railway tickets; it costs £30 annually or £70 for three years. With this card, they can save one third on all rail journeys, with average annual savings for cardholders being equal to £96.

Council Tax — £2,065

Age, income, savings, household composition and council tax payments determine council tax discounts. Certain senior citizens may not pay anything depending on how life has treated them. The mean band D council tax in 2023/24 was £2065 showing an increase of 5.1% from the previous year’s rates.

However, there have been a lot of changes recently. The country’s Chancellor Rachel Reeves declared that she would be removing universal benefit for households in England.

Moreover, the current Labour Government is said to face a £22bn public finance gap as it claims taxpayers’ money is being wasted on rich old people who do not need such assistance.

Winter Fuel Payment New Eligibility Criteria

Under the new rules, winter fuel payments will be restricted to the most financially disadvantaged retirees who receive specific benefits:

• Pension Credit
• Income Support
• Income-Based Jobseeker’s Allowance
• Income-Related Employment and Support Allowance
• Universal Credit

As a result, approximately 10 million senior citizens will stop receiving this benefit and only a small percentage will still qualify.

Ms Reeves expects $1.4bn in savings from this change during the current year and $1.5bn in savings next year for the Treasury Department.

Old and New Payment Amounts

Historically, beneficiaries received tax-free sums between one hundred to three hundred pounds sterling for warming themselves up in the cold months of winter. In more recent times, these were also added with “cost of living payments”.

In the future, eligible households will be allowed to access an allowance ranging from 200 and 300 pounds (0.14 ton) depending on age bracket of beneficiaries and composition of household:

• £200 for most eligible households
• £300 for households with individuals over 80

Payment Distribution

Payments for heating during winter are usually deposited directly into bank or building society accounts, or through the Payment Exception Service for those who cannot deal with such accounts.

Most payments are made in November and December, and most of them have been achieved by the end of the year. Generally, these persons receive a letter of notification in October or November indicating how much they will get in payment. If, by the end of January, no payment has been received, but one is expected to be made, it would be good to contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre.

While many homes pay for their energy through direct debit, which spreads costs evenly over the year, about 600,000 older households use prepayment meters. These households need to regularly top up their meters, making the winter fuel payment especially important.

State Pensioners Face Up to £600 Loss in Winter Fuel Payments

The upcoming payment cuts could mean that many state pensioners will lose up to £600 this winter due to stricter rules for winter payments.

Right now, Winter Fuel Payments are provided automatically to eligible state pensioners born before September 25, 1957, with amounts ranging from £250 and £600

Generally, any UK resident born before 1957 gets this benefit, unless they've been in hospital for over a period exceeding a year or have been in incarcerated.

Chancellor Announces Cuts to Winter Fuel Payments Amid £22 Billion Shortfall

Labour Chancellor Rachel Reeves unveiled a series of funding cuts to address a £22 Billion shortfall, she referred to as a ‘black hole’ in the nation’s finances.

As a result, Winter Fuel Payments will no longer be paid automatically, and will be provided only to those who receive specific benefits, including, Pension Credit, Universal Credit, Income Support, Jobseeker’s allowance and any income related support.

The Chancellor declared: “Around £1.5 billion will be saved per year by targeting Winter Fuel Payments meaning households with someone aged over State Pension age receiving Pension Credit, Universal Credit, Income Support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance and income-related Employment and Support Allowance will continue to receive Winter Fuel Payments. This will better target support for heating costs at those who need it.”

She added: “This is not the statement I wanted to give today, and these are not the decisions I wanted to make. But they are the right decisions in difficult circumstances.”

The funds are allocated by local authorities to residents who qualify for this service, and each council decides on how much it will allocate depending on its location.

Its purpose is to address basic needs such as food, clothing and utilities as well as offer support through vouchers and small grants during times of high cost of living.

Councils Roll Out New Support Payments Amid Cost of Living Crisis

Last week also saw the latest HSF local council schemes identified across districts:

Doncaster

In Doncaster, thousands of people may qualify for a £290 grant in cash. Consequently, Doncaster Council has given an allocation that can aid households receiving any of these benefits:

• Housing benefit
• Local council tax reduction
• Means-tested free school meals
• Universal Credit (including the housing element)
• Universal Credit (including the housing element)

Payments will be distributed as follows:

• Single individuals without dependent children: £50
• Couples without dependent children: £70
• Households with one dependent child: £110 (two payments of £55)
• Households with two dependent children: £170 (two payments of £85)
• Households with three dependent children: £230 (two payments of £115)
• Households with four or more dependent children: £290 (two payments of £145)

A dependent child is one who is in receipt of child benefit. Anybody who received their payment before from the program will get their payments without questions. These include pensioners or those not on pensions who did not receive any money earlier and meet the criteria but must fill out an online application.

Kirklees

In Kirklees, West Yorkshire, thousands of homes are entitled to £300 payments designed to help them offset rising bills. It is expected that over 15,000 people are eligible for this financial assistance, according to Kirklees Council.

The council is also extending help to local food banks and community organizations. So, applicants must apply and once the eligibility has been confirmed, payments will be made.

Eligible recipients are those on low incomes or benefits who need assistance with energy costs and feeding their families. Free school meals for families will automatically get support during school holidays without any application process.

Newcastle

Newcastle City Council has given out food vouchers to households in receipt of free school meals during holiday periods while at the same time giving hardship payments of £200 to families facing significant financial problems.

Qualification for this grant is based on having household responsibilities as well as a budget deficit that leads to expenses being more than incomes. Newcastle City Council's Advice Compact partners must have sought its residents' help through them to authorize the fund. Individual applications are not allowed.

A comprehensive list of the council’s advice partners can be found on its website. According to Newcastle City Council, funding was “limited” hence some people may miss out on receiving payment.

North Yorkshire

North Yorkshire Council is issuing £140 worth of e-vouchers to several homes that can be spent at nine retailers, and these are given to households who get a 100% council tax reduction.

On the first week of July, eligible homes started receiving letters providing guidance on how to go about claiming their vouchers. Every letter carries an individual redemption code, which will need to be inserted into the council’s site.

The redeeming process has to be completed by August 5th so that £140 can be availed before the expiry date of this voucher system. To claim the e-vouchers, you need an email account.

Worcestershire

The council has enabled people living in Worcestershire counties to access the HSF scheme facilitated by Act on Energy, which is responsible for its management. Participants who are eligible may apply for assistance with their electric bills, gas costs and water charges as well as oil, LPG and solid fuel bills.

Households with at least one child below 18 years or young adults up to 21 who are studying full-time could receive a maximum amount of £500 while adult residents aged between 18 and 66 without children get up to £300 for support purposes.

Equally, single adults or couples who qualify for pensionable age shall also obtain from this reward or incentive scheme thirty pounds towards their expenses (HM Government n.d.).

How to Apply for the HSF in Your Area

Contact your area council for help from the Household Support Fund, as advised by the Government website. To know if you qualify for it and access it in your area, do this:

1. Visit Your Local Council's Website: Almost every local government has an official website that has information about the household support fund in the form of eligibility criteria, application procedures and contacts for further assistance.
2. Check Eligibility Criteria: This will often depend on things like income levels, some benefits received (such as Council Tax Support or Universal Credit) and specific household circumstances (for example having children, being a pensioner or having disabilities).
3. Look for Application Details: Some councils make payments automatically to eligible residents, while others require applications. How to apply, what documents are needed and deadlines are usually posted on the local authority’s website.
4. Contact Your Council Directly: If you cannot get the details online, call your local council’s customer service or welfare support department.

In a recent consultation, plans were outlined regarding how the payment is made as well as eligibility and proposed payment rates taking into account age and household circumstances. Under PAWHP, all Scots who would currently qualify for Winter Fuel Payment would continue to get the same level of assistance but through Social Security Scotland.

The Scottish Government also emphasised that payments would remain un means-tested and tax-free. It has said: “Based on estimates of eligible claimants, in its first year (2024/25), PAWHP will cost around £180m by providing support to more than one million eligible individuals.”

Winter Heating Payment Schedule and Eligibility Criteria

Winter Fuel Payments have historically been paid automatically to qualified homes between November and January, just before the onset of coldest weather. The PAWHP will similarly follow this timing and automation process.

The eligibility for Winter Fuel Payment is tied to whether household members are over 66 or over 80 years old as well as their living arrangement e.g. single, couples or mixed age households in the qualifying week of September. This is not anticipated to change.

According to the advice on GOV.SCOT, sums paid will be £100, £150, £200 or £300 per person. A typical case would include a home with two eligible people receiving around £200-£300 in total.

Household eligibility criteria for payment rates

The guidance says: “We expect to retain these current payment values. On average, a normal family where the eldest person is under 80 would receive £200 while that containing an octogenarian gets £300. There are exceptions for residents of care homes.”

Residential Care Eligibility

Individuals in residential care and their eligibility will be subject to the same criterion as that of the Winter Fuel Payment. The guidance states:"People living in residential care during the qualifying week and prior 12 weeks do not receive a ‘full’ rate of Winter Fuel Payment."

In addition, those receiving free personal expenses will also be eligible for winter fuel payments of £100 at ages 66-79 or £150 at age 80 and above. This rate also applies to Pension Age Winter Heating Payment.

Because others are paid who have equal claim for Heating cost within accommodation where residents are being cared for is why this statement was written in this document.

Moreover, "Residential care residents on any one of these benefits do not receive any money." Previously, if you were a resident of a home for older persons whose income related benefits covered your care & housing costs including heating then it was paid for by the local Council using taxpayers' money

"In most cases, the elderly population that receives Pension Credit is still not entitled to get a WFP."

As reported by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), the New State Pension, applicable to claimants post April 6, 2016, amounts to a maximum of £221.20 per week.

For recipients of the Basic State Pension, the earlier iteration, the weekly amount is £169.50, contingent upon classification under Category A or B.

The amount you receive is contingent upon the accumulation of National Insurance years prior to reaching the age of 66. A minimum of 10 years is required to be eligible for any financial benefits. Therefore, if you are approaching the age of 66, it is imperative to promptly assess your entitlements.

Your State Pension age also serves as your Pension Credit qualifying age, yet there is a particular stipulation for men born before December 6, 1953. Should you seek information on when you are eligible to start receiving benefits, the  'Check your State Pension age' page on the GOV.UK website provides comprehensive guidance.

Upon attaining State Pension age or Pension Credit age, certain benefits become inapplicable. According to Turn2us, specific benefits from the Department for Work and Pensions are no longer attainable.

Here is an overview of the benefits that will continue and those that will cease upon reaching State Pension age.

List of Benefits Pensioners can no Longer Claim

Pension Credit Age

Upon reaching this age, it is time to bid farewell to:

• Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
• Income Support
• Universal Credit

Turn2us adds a little twist: if one member of a living together couple has reached retirement age while the other has not, the situation becomes more complex. It is advisable to use the Turn2us benefit calculator to ascertain your eligibility or consult with a benefits advisor.

State Pension Age

After Hitting the State Pension age and clocking in, there are certain adjustments to the eligibility criteria. Specifically, you forfeit the ability to claim:

• Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA)
• Contributory/New Style Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)

Assuming one is considering the entitlements of Disability Living Allowance (DLA) or Personal Independence Payment (PIP), it is important to note the following conditions. After reaching State Pension age, individuals are unable to initiate a new claim for these benefits.

However, if they were already recipients, it is possible to renew the benefits, provided the same health conditions persist and the previous claim lapsed less than a year before attaining pension age.

Notably, individuals who were DLA claimants prior to April 8, 1948, are exempt from transitioning to PIP. Conversely, those born after this date will undergo a mandatory transition.

Bereavement Support Payment and Widowed Parent’s Allowance are also discontinued for individuals once they reach State Pension age.

Benefits Still Available Post-Retirement Age

Not all benefits will cease to exist. Certain benefits will remain valid even after you have reached retirement age:

• Child Benefit (delivered by HMRC)
• Carer’s Allowance – though the amount you get may be affected by your State Pension income
• Guardian’s Allowance
• Statutory Sick Pay (SSP)

Certain benefits are subject to income thresholds or other specific conditions; nevertheless, you are still eligible to apply for them:

• Pension Credit
• Housing Benefit
• Council Tax Support
• Support for Mortgage Interest
• Working Tax Credit (HMRC) – new claims are not allowed, but you can continue to benefit from them if you already do
• Child Tax Credit (HMRC) – same as Working Tax Credit, no new claims but ongoing support if already claimed.
• Help with Health Costs
• Cold Weather Payment – now replaced by the £55.05 Winter Heating Payment in Scotland
• Warm Home Discount Scheme
• Winter Fuel Payment

State Pensioners Can Expect Up to £368 to Hit Their Bank Accounts Before Year's End

The payments are not expected to arrive until November at the earliest, but it is necessary to be aware of the amount of money to expect and when you'll be able to claim it. These payments include:

Winter Fuel Payment

With energy bills expected to increase in October, many older people will rely on the Winter Fuel Payment to stay warm.

It is a yearly tax-free payment provided for families that include someone born on or before 22 September 1958 (for 2024-25).

The payment can reach up to £300 although the money you'll get depends on your age and whether other members of your family also qualify.

In Scotland, a new lump sum will substitute the annual Winter Fuel Payment. The new Pension Age Winter Heating Payment (PAWHP) will be provided by Social Security Scotland.

Eligibility is related to the State Pension age of people in each household — over 60, or over 80 — and whether they are single, with a partner, of the same age, or mixed ages.

If you live with a partner who qualifies for the payment, you may split it between the two of you.

The payment rates available will include £100, £150, £200 or £300 for individuals, which will make a typical household of two generally receive a total amount of £200 or £300.

Winter Heating Payment — £58.75 one-off payment

This benefit is only available in Scotland, and is paid per person. It replaced the lower £25 Cold Weather Payment provided by the DWP in winter 2022, which pensioners all over the rest of the UK can claim.

In contrast to the DWP benefit, it does not depend on a sustained period of cold weather in a particular location but is a yearly, one-off payment provided regardless of the temperature.

The payment increases each year in accordance with inflation and will reach £58.75 this winter. The payments were mainly provided in December last year.

It is designed to assist people on a low income or benefits who might require extra heating during the cold season — this includes Pension Credit, Universal Credit and Income Support claimants.

The qualifying period is generally a specific week in November, which is still to be validated.

DWP's Christmas Bonus — £10

The bonus is a one-off, tax-free £10 payment provided to people who receive of State Pension or those who claim a certain type of benefits during the qualifying week — usually the first week of December.

No application is required for the extra £10 since it automatically goes into the account where you receive your State Pension or benefit payment. It is issued as a separate payment, which does not depend on your scheduled State Pension or benefit payment, so it can be expected to arrive on a different day.

Scottish Government Introduces New Heating Payment for Elderly Residents

The Pension Age Winter Heating Payment (PAWHP) will be worth up to £300 per person and will replace the yearly Winter Fuel Payment now provided by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

Under PAWHP, everyone in Scotland who is currently eligible for the Winter Fuel Payment will continue to get the same level of support, but will be funded by Social Security Scotland. The Scottish Government stated that this payment will remain non-means tested and tax-free.

The payment guidance has yet to be confirmed, however a recent consultation revealed that the amount received will be determined by the individual's home circumstances and age. The suggested payment rates for individuals are £100, £150, £200, or £300, with a typical household of two receiving £200 or £300 in total.

Pension Age Disability Payment

Pension Age Disability Payment will be substituting for Attendance Allowance as part of a phased experimental launch for new claimants beginning in Autumn 2024, with a statewide rollout in Spring 2025.

The eligibility and payment rates will remain the same as those from the DWP. Pension Age Disability Payment will be valued either £72.65 or £108.55 per week - £290.60 or £434.20 every four-week pay period - and is intended to assist older persons with significant daily living expenditures in remaining in their own homes for extended periods of time.

Some 140,716 people in Scotland who already receive DWP Attendance Allowance will not need to apply for the new benefit, since it will be moved automatically in phases to the Social Security Scotland IT system.

Social Security Scotland stated that it will make decisions concerning eligibility for Pension Age Disability Payment based on the applicant's account of their situation and existing supporting information.

Face-to-face assessments will not be conducted; examples of supporting information include:

• An occupational therapy assessment.
• A district nurse report.
• Information from a partner.

Social Security Scotland further stated that it will "assume responsibility, where necessary, for gathering information from various sources suggested by the individual."

Eligibility for Pension Age Disability Payment

The benefit will be available to individuals who match the following criteria:

• Individuals who have reached the State Pension age and over.
• People who have had their condition for at least six months.
• People who need more care.

Guidance from Gov.Scot states: “It is anticipated that eligibility rules for Pension Age Disability Payment will remain broadly similar to Attendance Allowance.”

It also states: “It is our intention that the rate of all forms of disability assistance will remain the same as the current rate of the equivalent UK disability benefit. The rate of assistance will increase in line with inflation each year.”

By the end of 2025, around 700,000 people will have migrated from DWP systems to the new Scottish welfare system, including those receiving Attendance Allowance, Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Disability Living Allowance (DLA), and Carer's Allowance.

Payment Rates for Pension Age Disability Payment

Social Security Scotland will offer Pension Age Disability Payment at the same weekly rate as Attendance Allowance. It is also doing this with the devolved Child Disability Payment and Adult Disability Payment.

The current weekly rates for Attendance Allowance are:

• Lower rate: £72.65.
• Higher rate: £108.55.

How can I apply for the Pension Age Disability Payment?

You can't apply for the new disability support benefit yet.

Anyone over the State Pension age who has a handicap that requires assistance with self-care or supervision to keep them safe should continue to apply for Attendance Allowance through the DWP.

Visit the webpage here to get the most recent updates on Social Security Scotland's new Disability Assistance programme.

Those who have paid at least ten years' worth of National Insurance (NI) contributions and have achieved the UK Government's eligible retirement age—66 for men and women—are eligible for this payment.

Those over 80, however, who do not get a Basic State Pension or whose weekly income is less than £101.55, may be eligible for additional funding to assist with living expenses.

The 'Over 80 Pension' now pays £101.55 per week to older people who do not receive the Basic State Pension, or makes up the shortfall.

People over the age of 66 with a low income may also be eligible for Pension Credit, which offers an additional £3,900 per year on average.

Claiming the 'Over 80 Pension'

It is crucial to note that if you attained State Pension age on or after April 6, 2016, you are ineligible for the 'Over 80 Pension'; instead, you are eligible for the New State Pension.

According to the GOV.uk advice, you can claim the over 80 pension if all of the following conditions are met:

• You are 80 or older.
• You do not receive Basic State Pension, or your Basic State Pension is inferior to £101.55 per week.
• You lived in the UK for at least ten years out of twenty (this does not have to be in a row); this 20-year span must include the day before or after you turned 80.
• You were 'ordinarily resident' in the UK, the Isle of Man, or Gibraltar on your 80th birthday or the date you lodged the claim for this pension.

If you live in or plan to move to a European Economic Area (EEA) country or Switzerland, visit GOV.UK to learn about pensions and benefits for UK nationals in the EU, EEA, and Switzerland.

Your eligibility for the over-80s pension is not determined by National Insurance contributions.

How to claim

You can receive a claim form from either:

• Your local Jobcentre Plus .
• The Pension Service.
• The earliest you can claim is three months before your 80th birthday.

You can request a claim form from the Pension Service by phoning 0800 731 7898. Click here for more information on GOV.UK.

Pension Credit

If you are over the State Pension age and have a low income, Pension Credit can help you with your living expenses. It can also grant access to a variety of other perks.

Nearly 1.4 million older individuals in Great Britain, including over 126,800 in Scotland, are presently receiving the means-tested benefit, which could give an additional £3,900 in support per year.

However, according to the latest DWP numbers, 880,000 eligible retirees are still not receiving the money to which they are entitled.

How much is Pension Credit worth?

Pension Credit is tax-free and increases monthly income to a guaranteed minimum level of £218.15 for single seniors and £332.95 for couples. If your income is higher, you may still be eligible if you have a disability, care for someone, have savings, or have housing expenses; learn more here.

What is income for Pension Credit?

Your revenue includes:

• State Pension.
• Other pensions.
• Earnings from employment and self-employment.
• Most social security benefits, for example Carer’s Allowance.

What does not qualify as income

Not all perks are treated as income. For instance, the following are not included:

• Adult Disability Payment.
• Attendance Allowance.
• Christmas Bonus.
• Child Benefit.
• Disability Living Allowance.
• Personal Independence Payment.
• social fund payments like Winter Fuel Allowance.
• Housing Benefit.
• Council Tax Reduction.

An award of just £1 per week is sufficient to access additional assistance, such as assistance with housing costs, heating bills, and Council Tax.

The Quickest Way to Check Eligibility for Pension Credit

Older persons, as well as friends and relatives, can quickly check their eligibility and estimate how much they might get by using the online Pension Credit calculator on GOV.UK here.

Alternatively, retirees can call the Pension Credit helpdesk at 0800 99 1234 to file a claim; lines are open 8am to 6pm Monday through Friday.

The DWP has also released a new video on YouTube that provides a comprehensive step-by-step guidance to utilizing the online calculator.

Mixed-age older Couple and Pension Credit

In May 2019, the law changed so that a'mixed age couple' - a relationship where one partner is of State Pension age and the other is not - is deemed a 'working age' couple when determining eligibility for means-tested benefits.

This implies they cannot collect Pension Credit or Pension Age Housing Benefit until they reach the State Pension age. Prior to this DWP change, a mixed-age couple could be eligible to receive the more lucrative State Pension age benefits if only one of them attained State Pension age.

How to Make a Claim

You can start your application up to four months prior to reaching the State Pension age. You can file a claim at any time after reaching the State Pension age, but it can only be backdated three months.

This means you might receive up to three months of Pension Credit in your first payment if you were eligible at the time.

You'll need:

• Your National Insurance Number
• Information regarding your income, savings, and investments
• Your bank account information, whether you're applying by phone or post.

If you are backdating your claim, you will need information about your income, savings, and assets on the date you want it to begin.

Pension Credit Overpayments Surge to £520 Million, With Fraud a Major Concern

Overpayments of Pension Credit, a supplement for elderly persons on low income, increased to £520 million in the fiscal year ending April 2024, up from £330 million the previous year.

The excessive payments included £210 million in fraud, a significant rise over past year's £120 million. Both increases were deemed as "statistically significant," with under-declaration of financial resources and long-term abroad stays being the primary causes.

If you are over the State Pension age and have a low income, Pension Credit can help you with your living expenses. It can also aid with housing costs, wipe off some or all of a person's council tax payment, and provide a free TV licence if you are 75 or older.

The DWP payment supplements your weekly retirement earnings to a minimum guarantee of £218.15 if you're single or a joint sum of £332.95 if you're in a relationship, with additional amounts available for individuals with children, impairments, or caring duties. It may also enable access to reduced expenses for NHS dental care, spectacles, and transportation fees for hospital appointments, and is amongst the qualifying benefits for the £150 Warm Home Discount payment each winter.

Government campaigns have motivated more individuals to apply, since it is estimated that up to 850,000 eligible households are missing out, with up to £1.7 billion in Pension Credit being unclaimed. However, records show a shocking increase in fraud among those receiving the benefit, owing primarily to claimants spending too much time overseas or failing to fully state the amount of savings they have hidden away.

Pension Credit has also experienced a "statistically significant" spike in fraud committed by people who falsely claimed to be single and failed to disclose that they were actually living with a spouse.

The Work and Pensions Committee recently heard that benefit overpayments increased by £1.4 billion, from £8.3 billion to £9.7 billion, in the previous fiscal year. According to the DWP, Pension Credit claims account for half of that rise.

Speaking to the committee, DWP Permanent Secretary Peter Schofield clarified: "It is not that we know what is going on with every single person who is claiming Pension Credit. Across the benefit system we do a sample of about 15,000 cases selecting a number of benefits that we do every year and some we do only now and again.

"Pension Credit is one that we looked at this year. We sampled a number of people who were claiming Pension Credit and we said: 'Right, we are going to look at your claim. We are going to go through it. You are claiming on this basis for this amount. This tells us for example that you do not have income coming in from capital to a large extent. Let us understand that. We need to see your bank account.'

"Off the back of that sample, we will then identify a certain number of people within Pension Credit who are receiving an overpayment. We extrapolate that out across the whole of the Pension Credit caseload and the percentage of Pension Credit overpayment was 9.7 per cent.

"More than half of that was accounted for by capital, so people had more than they were allowed in terms of savings to claim Pension Credit or they were abroad for a period of time that you are not allowed to claim Pension Credit. That then played into our fraud and overpayment statistics.

"That does not mean that we know who all these people are. That is where the data powers that the Secretary of State was describing come in. This is where this committee and the Public Accounts Committee have held me to account regularly over the last few years, which is how do we start detecting more of the fraud and error that we know is out there? One of the ways we do that is through data."

DWP Proposes Bank Monitoring for Welfare Claimants

The Department for Work and Pensions wishes to establish new powers to monitor all welfare claimants' bank accounts. The idea is that banks and building societies would need to inspect for capital levels over the threshold for low-income benefits including, Pension Credit, Universal Credit, and Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), together with long periods of foreign transactions that indicate someone is staying abroad for longer than the rules allow.

The restrictions are part of the Data Protection and Digital Information Bill, which was not approved when Parliament was dissolved ahead of the General Election on July 4. It's uncertain at this point if the intended legislation will be revived by the next government.

According to the most recent DWP numbers, errors made by Pension Credit claimants, such as providing false or incomplete information or failing to disclose a change in their circumstances, have increased from £160 million to a record-high £210 million.

In the meantime, DWP administrative errors accounted for an additional £100 million in overpayments, up from £60 million in 2022-2023. The majority were due to personnel making mistakes when assessing how much someone makes from personal or employment pensions.

What are the Pension Credit Rules for Travel and Savings?

People can continue to receive Pension Credit while overseas for up to four weeks, as long as they match the eligibility criteria. You can get Pension Credit for up to four additional weeks if you are abroad due to the death of a close relative, or if a close relative dies while you are gone and you cannot reasonably be anticipated to return to the UK.

If you have £10,000 or less in savings and investments, it will not affect your Pension Credit. If you have more than £10,000, each £500 over that amount counts as £1 in weekly income.

To be eligible for Pension Credit, you must live in England, Scotland, or Wales and have attained the State Pension age. When you apply, your income is calculated, and if you have a partner, your combined income is taken into account.

Your revenue includes:

• State Pension
• Other pension schemes
• Income from employment and self-employment
• Various social security benefits, like Carer's Allowance

However, not all benefits are treated as income. Disregarded benefits include Adult Disability Payment, Attendance Allowance, Child Benefit, Personal Independence Payment, Housing Benefit, Council Tax Support, social fund payments such as Winter Fuel Allowance, and the DWP Christmas Bonus.

This regular payment is currently worth up to £221.20 per week for people receiving the New State Pension (claimed after April 6, 2016) and £169.50 per week for those receiving the Basic State Pension (Category A or B).

The amount received from the contributory benefit is determined by the number of National Insurance years accrued prior to reaching the present retirement age of 66; at least ten years are needed to be eligible for any State Pension payment.

For older persons approaching the formal retirement age in the coming months of this year, it's critical to understand which benefits will remain, which additional ones you may now be eligible for, and which you may no longer claim.
Except for men born before December 6, 1953, your State Pension age is the same as your Pension Credit qualifying age. On the GOV.UK website's 'Check your State Pension age' page, you can find out if you are eligible to claim Pension Credit.

Benefits Affected by Your Pension Age

Turn2us has compiled an essential reference to the benefits you cannot claim from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) after you reach State Pension or Pension Credit age. For further information on any of the issues listed below, visit the Turn2us website.

Pension Credit Age

When you attain the State Pension age, you are no longer eligible to claim:

• Income-based Job Seekers' Allowance.
• Income-based Employment and Support Allowance (ESA).
• Income Support.
• Universal Credit.

Turn2us cautions: "If you live with a partner and one of you is pension age and the other is not yet pension age, benefit entitlement can be complicated."

Use the Turn2us benefit calculator to find out what benefits you're eligible for, or seek assistance from a benefits expert.

State Pension Age

When you attain the State Pension age, you are no longer eligible to claim:

• Benefits: Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA).
• Contributory/New Style Employment and Support Allowance (ESA).

Once you reach State Pension age, you cannot submit another claim for Disability Living Allowance (DLA), Personal Independence Payment (PIP), or Adult Disability Payment (ADP), as the new devolved disability payment has superseded all new PIP claims in Scotland.

However, even if you are past the State Pension age, you can renew your DLA, PIP, or ADP claim. This can only be done if you are claiming for the same medical issue for which you earned the award, and your last claim terminated fewer than 12 months before you achieved State Pension.

The DWP has stated that DLA claimants born before April 8, 1948, will not be shifted to PIP, but those born after that date will be.

People in Scotland who presently receive DLA or PIP will be moved to the new devolved Social Security Scotland system by the end of 2025.

Benefits that Are Not Affected by Your State Pension Age

You can receive these benefits even if you are past the State Pension age:

• Child Benefit (provided by HMRC).
• Carer's Allowance - You may not be qualified to receive the whole financial element based on your income from the State Pension.
• Guardian’s Allowance
• Statutory Sickpay (SSP).

You can claim these benefits even if you happen to be over the State Pension age, but only if you reach the benefit-specific income level:

• Pension Credit.
• Housing Benefit.
• Council Tax Support.
• Support for Mortgage Interest.
• Working Tax Credit (HMRC) - you can't make new claims for this, but if you're already getting it you can carry on receiving it.
• Child Tax Credit (HMRC)- you can't make new claims for this, but if you're already getting it you can carry on receiving it.
• Help with Health Costs.
• Cold Weather Payment - now replaced by new £55.05 Winter Heating Payment in Scotland.
• Warm Home Discount Scheme.
• Winter Fuel Payment.

It is worth noting that none of these payments are due before November at the earliest, but it is crucial to know the amount to expect and when you receive it.

State Pension Reform: PAWHP Takes Over Winter Fuel Payments

The greatest change this year for the older generation in Scotland is the new lump sum replacing the annual Winter Fuel Payment, which is currently managed by the DWP. It is set to be substituted with the Pension Age Winter Heating Payment (PAWHP) and will be provided by Social Security Scotland.

Winter Fuel Payments are in most cases made automatically to eligible families during November, December and January, to assist State Pensioners pay for the costs of higher winter bills. PAWHP will follow the same payment schedule as DWP and deliver payments of up to £300 per qualifying household.

Qualification criteria for Winter Fuel Payments are linked to the State Pension age of people living in each household — over 60, or over 80 — and their circumstances — single, couple, both of same age, or mixed ages — during the September qualifying week — this is also expected to remain unchanged.

The instructions provided by GOV.ScOT clarify that payment rates will be £100, £150, £200 or £300 for individuals, which makes a typical household of two generally receive a total of £200 or £300.

Household Qualification Criteria for Payment Rates

People Living in Nursing Homes

The eligibility for people who live in nursing homes will follow the same rules as the Winter Fuel Payment. The guidance clarifies: “People who are living in residential care during the qualifying week, and the period of 12 weeks immediately before the qualifying week, do not qualify for the ‘full’ rate of Winter Fuel Payment.”

People in nursing homes who do not receive the specific benefits listed in the table are qualified for a Winter Fuel Payment of either £100 if they are aged between 66 and 79 or £150 if they are aged 80 or over — this will be the same rate for Pension Age Winter Heating Payment.

The guidance clarifies that this is due to the fact that they share the accommodation with other individuals who are also qualified to the payment and are responsible for a share of the heating payments.

It continues: “Those who are living in residential care and receiving one of the specific benefits receive no payment.”

It explains: “This is because historically people living in a care home and in receipt of an income-related benefit have received public funding for their care and accommodation costs including heating through funding from the local authority.

“As this is still the case for the vast majority of people receiving Pension Credit, the WFP is not payable.”

Winter Heating Payment — £58.75 One-off Payment

This delegated benefit is only accessible in Scotland and replaced the £25 Cold Weather Payment provided by the DWP in winter 2022. In contrast to the DWP benefit, it does not depend on a sustained period of cold weather in a particular location but is a yearly, one-off payment made regardless of the weather.

The payment increases each year along with inflation and will be worth £58.75 this winter. Most payments were delivered in December last year, so the payments could be expected on the same period this year.

It is made to assist low-income individuals or benefits who might have additional heating needs during the winter period — this includes those on Pension Credit, Universal Credit and Income Support.

The qualifying period is usually a specific week in November, which hasn’t been confirmed yet. You can find more information about the Winter Heating Payment on mygov.scot here.

DWP's Christmas Bonus — £10

This payout is a one-off, tax-free £10 payment granted to people who receive State Pension or those who claim some other benefits during the qualifying week, which typically falls on the first full week of December.

No application is needed for the extra £10 as it automatically goes into the account where your State Pension or benefit payments are typically delivered. It is issued as a separate payment, independent of your regular State Pension or benefit payment, so you can expect it to arrive on a different day.

Eligible benefits

• Adult Disability Payment.
• Armed Forces Independence Payment.
• Attendance Allowance.
• Carer’s Allowance.
• Carer Support Payment.
• Child Disability Payment.
• Constant Attendance Allowance (paid under Industrial Injuries or War Pensions schemes).
• Contribution-based Employment and Support Allowance (once the main phase of the benefit is entered after the first 13 weeks of claim).
• Disability Living Allowance.
• Incapacity Benefit at the long-term rate.
• Industrial Death Benefit (for widows or widowers).
• Mobility Supplement.
• Pension Credit — the guarantee element.
• Personal Independence Payment (PIP).
• State Pension (including Graduated Retirement Benefit).
• Severe Disablement Allowance (transitionally protected).
• Unemployability Supplement or Allowance (paid under Industrial Injuries or War Pensions schemes).
• War Disablement Pension at State Pension age.
• War Widow’s Pension.
• Widowed Mother’s Allowance.
• Widowed Parent’s Allowance.
• Widow’s Pension.

Scottish Government Proposes State Pension Age Winter Heating Payment (PAWHP) for Elderly Citizens

Pension Age Winter Heating Payment (PAWHP) is set to be provided on a like-for-like basis to its Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) counterpart and paid to everyone over the State Pension age every year.

A newly issued consultation highlighted proposals on delivery of the payment, eligibility and suggested payment rates — related to age and household circumstances. Under PAWHP, anyone in Scotland who would currently be qualified to receive the Winter Fuel Payment would continue to get the same support level, but paid by Social Security Scotland.

The Scottish Government has also asserted that payments will continue to be tax-free and non-means tested. It also stated: “Based on estimations of eligible claimants, PAWHP will be an investment of around £180 million in the first year (2024/25), providing support to over one million eligible people.”

Winter Fuel Payments are in most cases paid automatically to qualifying households during November, December and January right before the coldest weather start. Proposals for PAWHP will follow the same payment schedule and automation.

WFP eligibility is related to the State Pension age of people living in each household — over 66, or over 80 — and their circumstances — single, couple, both of the same age, or mixed ages — during the September qualifying week — this is also expected to remain the same.

Payments

The GOV.ScOT guidance explains that payment rates will be £100, £150, £200 or £300 for individuals, which results in a standard household of two generally getting a total of £200 or £300.

It says: “We intend to maintain the current values of payments. That means, generally, that a typical household where the oldest person is under 80 will receive £200 and a household containing a person aged 80 or over will receive £300. The exception to this is where someone is in residential care.”

Updated Household Eligibility Criteria for Payment Rates

Residential Care

For people living in residential care, the eligibility will follow the similar rules as the Winter Fuel Payment. The guidance explains: “People who are living in residential care during the qualifying week, and the period of 12 weeks immediately before the qualifying week, do not qualify for the ‘full’ rate of Winter Fuel Payment.”

People in residential care who do not get specific benefits listed in the table are eligible for a Winter Fuel Payment of either £100 if they are aged 66 to 79 or £150 if they are 80 or over — this will be the same rate for Pension Age Winter Heating Payment.

According to the guidance, this is due to sharing the accommodation with other individuals who are also entitled to the payment and are responsible for a share of the heating payments.

It continues: “Those who are living in residential care and receiving one of the specific benefits receive no payment.”

It explains: “This is because historically people living in a care home and in receipt of an income-related benefit have received public funding for their care and accommodation costs including heating through funding from the local authority.

“As this is still the case for the vast majority of people receiving Pension Credit, the WFP is not payable.”

Other Exclusions

The proposals also include other exclusions which currently apply to the Winter Fuel Payment that will also apply for PAWHP and would result in no award.

This includes:

• If the person has been in hospital for more than a year.
• If the person is imprisoned throughout the qualifying week.

The Scottish Government highlighted that similar to those in residential care, public funding will include the costs of heating the accommodation and therefore no extra support is demanded.

Offered by the Scottish Government and the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), these financial assistance payments are designed to ease the burden of escalating heating costs during the colder months.

Pension Age Winter Heating Payment

One of the most significant changes this year is the introduction of the Pension Age Winter Heating Payment (PAWHP), a redesigned version of the former Winter Fuel Payment.

Previously run by the DWP, this crucial support system will now be managed by Social Security Scotland, underlining the devolved nation's commitment to safeguarding the welfare of its ageing population.

The PAWHP is expected to mirror the payment schedule of its predecessor, with payments scheduled between November and January.

Eligible households can expect to receive up to £300, a substantial sum designed to offset the financial pressure of increased heating needs during the winter months.

PAWHP Eligibility Criteria

Whether you are eligible for PAWHP depends on the State Pension age of the people living in a household, as well as their specific circumstances.

Various factors such as being over 60 or 80, living alone or as a couple, and the age disparity between partners will all be taken into account during the September reference week.

It is expected that payment rates will range between £100 and £300 per person, with typical households with two occupants likely to receive between £200 and £300 in total.

This multi-tiered system ensures that financial assistance is tailored to the unique needs of each eligible household.

Eligibility Nuances for Residential Care

People in residential care homes will be eligible for PAWHP and Winter Fuel Allowance in much the same way as under the old Winter Fuel Allowance. There are, however, a few nuances to be noted.

Those living in a care home during the reference week, as well as during the 12 weeks preceding it, may not be entitled to the full rate of PAWHP.

Instead, they may be entitled to a reduced payment of £100 (for those aged 66-79) or £150 (for those aged 80 and over). This adjustment takes into account the housing and heating costs shared by the residents.

In addition, people in residential care who receive specific benefits listed by the Scottish Government may not be entitled to any allowance. In fact, their care and accommodation costs, including heating costs, are generally covered by public funds from local authorities.

Scottish Winter Heating Payment

In parallel with the PAWHP, Scotland has introduced its own dedicated benefit, the Winter Heating Payment. This one-off payment, worth £58.75 for the coming winter season, replaces the now defunct Cold Weather Payment, which was administered by the DWP.

Unlike its predecessor, which was dependent on prolonged periods of low temperatures in certain localities, the Winter Heating Payment is an annual payment that is not linked to weather conditions.

Its aim is to provide financial assistance to low-income households and recipients of benefits such as Pension Credit, Universal Credit and Income Support, who may face additional heating costs during the winter months.

Who is Eligible?

Winter Heating Payment is available only to those living in Scotland who :

• Get a particular benefit – this is the ‘qualifying benefit’
• Get the qualifying benefit on at least one day in the first full week of November – this is the ‘qualifying week’
• Meet one other specific requirement of their qualifying benefit

Given last year's precedent, the majority of payments should be distributed in November.

Previous Qualifying Weeks for Winter Heating Payment

Anyone who lives in Council Tax bands A to E can benefit from a substantial reduction of £400 on their annual energy bills. Regardless of whether you are a homeowner, landlord or renter from a private entity or housing association, you can take advantage of this remarkable opportunity.

However, if you are a tenant, it is essential to obtain your landlord's permission before proceeding with any insulation installation.

One of the main conditions of eligibility is the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of your home. If your home is rated between D and G, or if it falls into tax bands A-D in England or A-E in Scotland or Wales, you may be able to take part in this innovative scheme.

How the Great British Insulation Scheme Works

The initiative is based on a mandate for energy suppliers to help their customers reduce their heating bills through the installation of energy efficiency measures.

These measures may include loft and cavity wall insulation, among others, with the cost being partially or fully subsidised, depending on the measure proposed and any property-specific considerations.

The government has set ambitious targets for the Great British Insulation Scheme, aiming to help more than 300,000 households improve their energy efficiency between 2023 and 2026.

The expected result? Households taking part in the scheme could benefit from average annual savings on their energy bills of between £300 and £400.

It is anticipated that more than 100,000 homes will be awarded a level C energy efficiency certificate, thus contributing to the government's objective of reducing fuel poverty.

Similarly, programme operators will also check modelling assumptions to ascertain whether targets such as expected energy savings and bill reductions are accurately estimated.

Whereas the raw participation figures for a scheme may appear satisfactory, a failure to validate the underlying assumptions, such as expected savings per measure, might risk the achievement of wider objectives, such as the reduction of fuel poverty.

Octopus Energy to Refund £178 of Households' Bills

The onset of spring means that many households may have stopped using their heating to save costs. Octopus Energy has now published a guide for direct debit customers on monthly bills.

Customers who pay their monthly invoices by direct debit may notice that credit balances are building up due to the fall in gas and electricity consumption compared with the winter peaks. For some, this means that they wonder why their bills don't go down as consumption falls.

Direct debit payment systems work with fixed monthly amounts to keep bills stable over the seasons. Credits in the warmer months compensate for higher winter consumption without fluctuating payments. However, large credits may justify requests for repayment.

Customers can claim refunds at any time, however, it is prudent to consider the impact on winter bills. Industry data shows that average household credits are £178. Suppliers should review payments periodically to avoid excessive credit.

Octopus Energy explained, in response to a request for credit by direct debit, that credits build up naturally from reduced summer usage in return for regular payments. The company's forecasting tool shows the trajectories of payments and usage balances over 12 months.

Energy Bills Fall to Lowest Levels Since February 2022

British consumers can breathe a sigh of relief as energy regulator Ofgem cuts its price cap in response to falling wholesale prices. The new cap is 12.3% lower than the previous cap of £1,928 for a typical dual-fuel household in England, Scotland, and Wales, now standing at £1,690.

This translates to a yearly saving of £238 or approximately £20 per month. As a result, the typical household on a standard variable tariff (SVT) is expected to spend £127 on energy in April, a decrease from £205 in March.

However, to ensure that consumers benefit from the reduced cap, households on SVTs are urged to submit their meter readings promptly. Failure to provide readings may result in inaccurate billing based on estimated usage, potentially resulting in overpayment or underpayment.

According to Uswitch, a comparison website, households could save an average of £4.65 by reducing their energy usage for a week at the new rates compared to the old rates.

Rising Standing Charges

Although the cost per unit of energy usage is expected to drop, sadly, standing charges are on the rise. These are fixed daily charges that households are required to pay for the supply of energy to their property, regardless of how much they use.

The standing charge for gas has increased from an average of 29.6p to 31.43p per day. Similarly, the daily standing charge for electricity has risen from 53.35p per day to 60.1p per day. Thus, for the average direct debit customer, the annual standing charge has risen from £303 to £334.

The so-called price cap is a misunderstood concept. It is supposed to be a cap on the price per kilowatt-hour or unit of gas and electricity, not a cap on the total amount you'll pay for energy. As standing charges rise, households may need to reduce their energy consumption to keep their bills at the same level.

As standing charges go up, households will have to cut back on their energy use just to keep their bills the same," said Simon Francis, coordinator of the End Fuel Poverty Coalition. Fiona Waters, a spokeswoman for Warm This Winter, expressed similar concerns about standing charges.

She pointed out that customers have to pay standing charges regardless of whether they have used any energy, and that these charges continue to rise despite the overall price cap reduction. There is significant uncertainty regarding the scope of coverage and the profits generated by these network firms.

If you have reached State Pension age but have not yet received your 2023/24 Winter Fuel Payment, it's important to claim before the Easter Sunday deadline. Failure to do so may result in missing out on up to £600 to help cover your heating bills.

Who Has Received the Winter Fuel Payment?

As of January 26, 2024, more than 11 million State Pensioners had already received automatic payments of between £250 and £600. If you believe you are entitled to the one-off payment but haven't received it, it is vital that you contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre before the 31 March deadline.

Who Needs to Claim the Winter Fuel Payment?

Most retirees should have received their payment automatically before 26 January. However, some individuals may still need to make a claim. This includes individuals who:

1. Have never received a Winter Fuel Payment before
2. Live abroad
3. Receive the devolved benefit, Adult Disability Payment

However, if you have never received a winter heating allowance, you should only claim it in certain circumstances:

• You do not get benefits or the State Pension
• The only benefit you get is Adult Disability Payment, Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction, Child Benefit or Universal Credit
• You live in Switzerland or an eligible EEA country

How to Make a Claim

To request your Winter Fuel Payment, you may do so either by post or by telephone as follows:

1. Claim by Post: Fill in a Winter Fuel Payment claim form for UK residents and send it to the Winter Fuel Payment Centre. The form and address details are available on GOV.UK.
2. Claim Over the Phone: Contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre at 0800 731 0160. The lines are open Monday to Friday from 8am to 6pm.

You should also ensure that you have your National Insurance number, details of your bank or building society and the date of your marriage or civil partnership (if applicable) before making the claim.

Please note: Due to the Easter bank holiday weekend, telephone lines and offices will be closed over the weekend and on Friday 29 March. Therefore, the deadline for applying for the helping hand is today, March 28.

Qualifying criteria for winter fuel payments

To be eligible for winter fuel allowance, the following criteria must be met:

• You were born before 25 September 1957
• You lived in the UK for at least one day during the week of 18 to 24 September 2023 (known as the 'qualifying week').

Value of the Winter Fuel Payment 2023/24

The winter fuel payment is tax-free and won't have any impact on your other benefits. The precise amount you'll receive will depend on your circumstances:

• For those living alone or with someone who is not eligible for the Winter Fuel Payment, you will receive either £500 (if you were born between 25 September 1943 and 24 September 1957) or £600 (if you were born before 25 September 1943).
• If you live with someone else who is entitled to winter fuel allowance, and you receive certain benefits, your allowance may fluctuate.
• You will receive either £250 (if you were born between 25 September 1943 and 24 September 1957) or £300 (if you were born before 25 September 1943) as long as you live in a care home and are eligible.

Eligibility for Care Home Residents

Residents of care homes may qualify for Winter Fuel Allowance if they satisfy the eligibility criteria. However, you will not be entitled to it if you:

• You are getting Pension Credit, Income Support, income-based Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA) or income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA).
• You have lived in a care home for the whole of the period from 26 June to 24 September 2023.

Ineligibility for Winter Heating Payments

Generally, you will be ineligible for winter fuel payments if you :

• Have been in hospital receiving free treatment for more than a year
• You need permission to enter the UK, and the permission you have been granted states that you are not entitled to public funds.
• Have been in prison for the whole week of 18 to 24 September 2023.

Time is running out. So, don't miss your chance to claim Winter Fuel Payment, as time is running out. Contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre now on 0800 731 0160.

Usual Benefits and Pension Payments

American Airlines Outperformed Wall Street Estimates in Q4 2023

American Airlines outperformed Wall Street expectations for the fourth quarter of 2023, reporting adjusted earnings per share of 29 cents, well above the expected 10 cents. Revenue also exceeded estimates, reaching $13.06 billion, compared to the anticipated $13.02 billion. Despite a significant year-over-year decline in net income to $19 million from $803 million, adjustments for one-time items, including a new labor agreement, showcase the airline's resilient performance. This outcome contrasts with the airline's earlier estimate of breaking even for the December period in its third-quarter earnings report.

American Airlines CEO Robert Isom expressed satisfaction with the company's strong year-end results, emphasizing the focus on reliability, profitability and strengthening the balance sheet. Isom anticipates a bustling first and second quarter, emphasizing that now is an opportune time for travel.

American Airlines Anticipates Strong Earnings and Employee Profit-Sharing for 2024

Regarding the outlook for the first quarter of 2024, American Airlines projects an adjusted net loss per share ranging from 15 cents to 35 cents. Costs, excluding fuel, are expected to increase between 2% and 4%, while flying capacity is projected to rise by 6.5% to 8.5%.

The US-based airline anticipates adjusted earnings per share ranging from $2.25 to $3.25 for the full year 2024, with a mid-single-digit increase in flying capacity compared to 2023. In a letter to team members, CEO Robert Isom announced a profit-sharing payment for all U.S. and Canada-based employees in March, underscoring the robustness of the business.

The earnings report coincides with a flurry of updates from the airline industry, with Southwest and Alaska also reporting fourth-quarter earnings on the same day. United Airlines, which posted better-than-expected results earlier this week, provided an optimistic outlook for 2024.

Despite challenging winter weather conditions, American Airlines achieved its best-ever on-time departures during the December holidays, showcasing operational resilience.

FAA's Boeing 737 Max Production Freeze Raises Delivery Concerns for American Airlines

Recent attention has been focused on the Boeing 737 Max 9 aircraft, grounded by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) following an incident on an Alaska Airlines flight. While American Airlines doesn't operate this model, it does have a widely used 737 Max, with plans for an additional 20 this year, as mentioned by CEO Robert Isom.

However, late Wednesday, the FAA announced a suspension of Boeing's capacity to increase 737 Max production, raising concerns about potential impacts on future aircraft deliveries for American Airlines.

“Boeing needs to get their act together. The issues that they’ve been dealing with over the recent period of time, but also going back a number of years now, is unacceptable,” emphasized CEO Isom on an earnings call Thursday.