Pensioners are to start receiving up to £600 to help with their energy bills. The Winter Fuel Payments have been boosted by an additional £300 per household this year, bringing much-needed relief to those facing the challenges of the colder months.
The payments, which will be made over the next two months, will land in the bank accounts of the majority of pensioners automatically. This initiative is part of the government’s commitment to supporting people across the country, especially pensioners who may face particular difficulties during the winter season.
In addition to the financial assistance, pensions will also receive a boost through the Triple Lock, with the full rate of the New State Pension increasing by over £900 next year. This demonstrates the government’s dedication to ensuring that pensioners can stay warm and comfortable throughout the winter months.
To identify the payments, the money will appear in bank statements with a payment reference starting with the customer’s National Insurance number, followed by ‘DWP WFP’ for people in Great Britain, or ‘DFC WFP’ for people in Northern Ireland.
While the majority of Winter Fuel Payments are paid automatically, some individuals may need to make a claim. This includes those who qualify but do not receive benefits or the State Pension and have never previously received a Winter Fuel Payment. These payments provide additional support to pensioners, the majority of whom have fixed incomes and are unable to increase their earnings through employment.
This announcement comes shortly after the recent £300 Cost of Living payments made by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to over seven million eligible households across the UK. This payment is the second of up to three Cost of cost-of-living payments being made this financial year. It is important to note that all these payments are tax-free and will not impact existing benefit awards, showcasing the government’s commitment to assisting low-income families with financial pressures.
Pensioners who receive Pension Credit are also eligible for this extra support. The average Pension Credit award is now worth £3,900 per year, and eligible individuals still have time to apply and receive the £300 Cost of Living payment. Claims for Pension Credit can be backdated by three months if the entitlement conditions are met throughout that period.
