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The winter fuel payment has caused controversy in the UK government, as millions of pensioners have lost their help with energy bills. So what is this payment and how can eligible pensioners still claim it?
Winter fuel payments are designed to assist pensioners with their energy bills, regardless of their financial situation. This payment came from the principle that older people may be left vulnerable and at a higher risk if they don’t have the money to pay their bills. However, in July, Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced that this payment would now only go to those on low incomes receiving certain benefits.
This decision means that over 10 million pensioners will lose their winter fuel payment. Many charities and MPs are concerned about those who remain on small incomes and will not be eligible for support. This decision affects England, Wales and Scotland; in fact, the Scottish government has also chosen to stop pensioners’ universal entitlement to this payment.
The winter fuel payment for this year is worth £200 for those on certain benefits born between 23 September 1944, and 22 September 1958. For those on certain benefits born before 23 September 1944, the payment is worth £300. If a group of pensioners live together and are jointly claiming benefits, then only one person will receive the winter fuel payment. It is typically paid automatically in November or December.
Although eligible pensioners receive this payment without making a direct claim, an estimated 880,000 pensioners who could claim the pension credit fail to do so. Pension credit is a top-up for state pensions, usually worth thousands of pounds per year. People may be eligible if they are of state pension age and earn less than £218.15 per week or £332.95/week jointly with their partner. Incapacitated and caring individuals, as well as those with housing expenses, may still be eligible.
To receive the winter fuel payment, you must first make a claim for pension credit. You can check your eligibility for pension credit and complete your claim via the government’s online calculator. Additionally, a phone line is available on weekdays – 0800 99 1234. The final date for making a backdated claim for pension credit, in order to receive the winter fuel payment, is 21 December.
Pension credit is worth an average of more than £3,900 per year and is diverse. This benefit may incorporate a reduction in council tax, a free TV license, or help with NHS expenditures, among other things. Charities may help guide you through the process of accessing additional financial assistance. Despite the billions that the government spends on pensions and benefits, many households are entitled to extra assistance that goes unclaimed, such as universal credit, council tax support, and carer’s allowance
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