For years, the Winter Fuel Payment has been a vital source of financial support for state pensioners, helping them cover increased energy costs during the colder months. However, this year marks a significant shift, as the government has introduced means-testing, meaning not all pensioners will automatically receive the payment.
Despite this change, those who do qualify could receive a higher amount than expected, with pensioners aged 80 or older eligible for an extra £100. This adjustment means that while some pensioners are losing out on the payment altogether, others could see their support increase significantly.
The exact amount each pensioner receives will depend on their age and benefit status during the qualifying period, which ran from 16 to 22 September 2024. However, for those who missed the deadline, there is still time to backdate a Pension Credit claim until December—potentially unlocking additional financial support.
Who Qualifies for the Extra £100?
Under the new rules, pensioners who meet the eligibility criteria will receive one of two Winter Fuel Payment rates:
- Pensioners born on or before 22 September 1958 (under 80) will receive £200.
- Pensioners born on or before 23 September 1944 (over 80) will receive £300.
This means that pensioners aged 80 or older will get an additional £100 on top of the standard payment, provided they meet other eligibility requirements.
While many pensioners will receive automatic payments, others may need to submit a claim, especially if they have never received a Winter Fuel Payment before or if they are on Universal Credit or Tax Credits.
How to Claim the Winter Fuel Payment
Most pensioners who qualify will receive a letter confirming their payment amount, along with details of which bank account it will be paid into—usually the same one linked to Pension Credit or other benefits.
However, if you do not receive an automatic payment, you may need to submit a claim. According to Age UK:
“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.”
For those who do not receive these benefits, or if they have never claimed a Winter Fuel Payment before, it may be necessary to apply directly. Pensioners who receive Child Tax Credit or Working Tax Credit must make a claim manually.
When Will Payments Be Made?
Eligible pensioners should receive their Winter Fuel Payment between mid-November and Christmas. If the payment does not arrive, they can contact the Winter Fuel Payment helpline at 0800 731 0160 for assistance.
A statement from the government confirmed:
“If you’ve never received a Winter Fuel Payment before, or if you claim Universal Credit, you might need to make a claim. You should receive your payment between mid-November and Christmas.”
This means that pensioners should check their bank accounts regularly, as the exact payment date may vary depending on individual circumstances.
What Pensioners Should Do Now
With the government tightening eligibility rules, some pensioners will lose access to the Winter Fuel Payment, while others—particularly those over 80—could see an increase in their support.
To ensure they receive the correct payment, pensioners should:
- Check their eligibility based on their birth year and benefit status.
- Confirm whether they will receive an automatic payment or need to apply.
- Backdate a Pension Credit claim before December if they missed the qualifying week.
- Contact the Winter Fuel Payment helpline if their payment does not arrive.
For those who qualify, this extra £100 boost could provide valuable financial relief during the coldest months of the year.
