This winter, almost 10 million pensioners in the UK will lose access to Winter Fuel Payments following a significant change to the system announced by the Government. From this winter onwards, only those on Pension Credit or other specific benefits will be eligible for the payment, leaving millions without additional financial assistance.
Eligibility for the Winter Fuel Payment will be determined based on criteria met during this week. Pensioners who qualify will receive a letter in October or November, with the payment expected to be made in November or December.
What Is Pension Credit and How Can You Access It?
Pension Credit is a benefit designed to assist people over the State Pension age who are on a low income with their daily living costs. Interestingly, you don’t need to be receiving a State Pension to qualify for Pension Credit. The benefit ensures that single pensioners have a minimum income of £218.15 per week, and couples receive at least £332.95.
Additionally, pensioners may qualify for an extra £81 a week if they claim any of the following disability benefits:
- Attendance Allowance
- The middle or highest rate of the care component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- The daily living component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Armed Forces Independence Payment
- The daily living component of Adult Disability Payment (ADP) at the standard or enhanced rate
While around 1.4 million pensioners currently receive pension credit, it’s estimated that thousands more are eligible but are not claiming this extra support. Pension Credit recipients are also eligible for other benefits, such as help with housing and council tax, and additional assistance with heating bills.
Government Response
Chancellor Rachel Reeves explained that tough decisions had to be made to fix the economy’s foundations, citing the £22 billion black hole inherited from previous governments. “We are making the Winter Fuel Payments available to those most in need,” said Reeves. “1.3 million pensioners already receive help with fuel bills because they claim Pension Credit, but thousands more are eligible. Now is the time to help those who qualify to apply for this benefit.”
Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall echoed this sentiment, urging pensioners to check their eligibility for Pension Credit, noting that thousands are missing out on an average of £3,900 per year. She also encouraged friends, families, and neighbours to help their loved ones apply for vital support.
With the Government’s focus on targeting the Winter Fuel Payments to those most in need, the changes have sparked a call to action for pensioners to explore whether they qualify for Pension Credit and the assistance it provides.
