Who Is Entitled To Winter Fuel Payments Under The New Changes?

In July 2024, the UK government announced that they would be scrapping winter fuel payments for millions of pensioners. It’s a change that has been criticised by many with fears over pensioners struggling to heat their homes during a cost of living crisis. Following changes to the eligibility criteria, you might be wondering whether you’re still entitled to receive the winter fuel payment.

In this blog, we’ll break down who is entitled to winter fuel payments following the new changes, along with when you can expect your payment if you qualify. We’ll also explain how to claim winter fuel payment so you don’t miss out on this vital benefit.

What is the winter fuel payment?

The winter fuel payment is a yearly benefit for pensioners to help pay for their heating costs during the winter months. The payment can range between £200 and £300 based on your age and situation.

Before the government announced they were stopping the payments, every pensioner was eligible to receive payment. This was because the benefit took into account a person’s age, rather than the benefits they received. Now, only those who receive certain benefits will get the payment, with the change focusing on those who need it the most.

The aim of the change is to help vulnerable pensioners who are on low incomes or those who might be struggling financially to give aid to those affected by rising energy costs.

Who gets the winter fuel payments?

As we’ve mentioned, the winter fuel payment will now only be available for pensioners who are of a certain age and receive certain benefits. You need to have reached state pension age during a special week to qualify, usually in September, and the exact date changes each year.

To be eligible for the winter fuel payment for 2024, you must be born on or before 22nd September 1958 and receive any of the following benefits:

• Pension Credit
• Universal Credit
• Income Support
• Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
• Child Tax Credit (of at least £26)
• Work Tax Credit (of at least £26)

Unfortunately, if you don’t meet these requirements, you will not get the payment. However, the change has highlighted how important it is for pensioners to check if they’re eligible for Pension Credit and access all of the benefits they can.

When do winter fuel payments get paid?

Winter fuel payments are usually paid to pensioners between November and December. The exact date can change based on your personal situation and benefits you’re receiving. If you already receive any of the benefits above, the payments will come to you automatically. If you live abroad, you might need to make a direct claim.

If you think you qualify and haven’t received your payment by December, it’s a good idea to call the winter fuel payment helpline. They can offer help and answer any questions about the status of your payment.

How to claim winter fuel payment

For many, claiming your winter fuel payment is easy. As we’ve mentioned, if you receive any of the listed benefits above, you will usually receive payment automatically. But if you live abroad, you may need to make a claim.

You can check if you’re eligible or if you need to make a claim by visiting the gov.co.uk website. It’s vital to check your eligibility and to know how to make a claim, especially with the recent changes, and make sure you’re claiming all of the benefits you’re entitled to.

The claims process is easy, and to make it as smooth as possible, you’ll need to have some documents and information at hand which include:

• Your National Insurance number
• Your bank or building society details
• The date you married or entered a civil partnership (if applicable)

You can make a claim by post by 30th September 2024, or by phone by 28th October 2024. You can find all the information you need to be able to make a claim on the gov.co.uk website.

We’re here to provide more advice

Winter fuel payments are a very important source of financial help for many people, and these changes will impact millions of pensioners across the UK. Remember, there are lots of sources of help out there such as Age UK and Citizens Advice that you can reach out to for help and support.

If you find you are no longer eligible for winter fuel payments, there are ways you can make your home more energy efficient. We can provide you with some expert tips and advice to help keep your home warm during the winter months, so don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today to learn more.

Winter fuel payments FAQs

Who is no longer eligible for winter fuel payments after the changes?

Pensioners who are older than the state pension age and don’t receive a qualifying benefit like Pension Credit will no longer receive the winter fuel payment. The changes aim to focus on providing support for those who need the help the most.

What should I do if I haven’t received my winter fuel payment?

If you have not received your winter fuel payment by December and think you should have it, you can reach out to the winter fuel payment helpline. They can help answer questions, solve any issues, and give you guidance about payments.

How can I appeal a decision regarding my winter fuel payment?

If your winter fuel payment claim is denied and you think this is a mistake, you can appeal the decision online.