State pensioners born in these specific years will notice their Winter Fuel Payment increase by £100 if they qualify for the payment.
State Pensioners Born in These Years Will Receive an Additional £100 in Their Winter Fuel Payment
By Lydia Amazouz
Published on 30 September 2024 13:50
Following the new government's decision to make the Winter Fuel Payment means-tested for state pensioners who no longer claim a specific qualifying benefit, many will not be able to claim the cash this year.
However, many among those who are still eligible for the payment ignore that even if they qualify for this benefit, the amount they get varies based on the year they were born and on other circumstances.
State Pensioners Born in Specific Years to Get Winter Fuel Payment Increase
Previously, all state pensioners were able to claim the Winter Fuel Payment. The benefit used to be paid automatically, however, starting this winter, pensioners are required to claim a qualifying benefit like Pension Credit after the government opted for a rule change.
State pension age individuals under 80, (born on or prior to September 22, 1958) will get a £200 payment, those over this age (born September 23, 1944 or earlier) will qualify for a £300 payment. The amount you qualify for depends on your date of birth and circumstances.
The qualifying week stretches from September 16 to September 22.
This implies that if someone is older than 80, and qualify, their Winter Fuel Payment will increase from £200 to £300.
Eligible Pensioners Set to Receive Important Letter
The majority of those who qualify will get a letter containing all the details regarding how much they'll get and which bank account the payment will be deposited into. In most cases, money will be paid into the same account in which Pension Credit and other benefits are received.
Age UK stated: “If you or your partner claims Pension Credit, Income Support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance or income-related Employment and Support Allowance, the payment should go to the main claimant of the benefit automatically.
“If you've never received a Winter Fuel Payment before, or if you claim Universal Credit, you might need to make a claim. And if you receive Child Tax Credit or Working Tax Credit, you must make a claim.
The leading charity added that the payments should arrive between mid-November and Christmas. It also advised pensioners to contact the Winter Fuel Payment helpline on 0800 731 0160 in case they didn't receive their payments or have any inquiries.