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About 10 million pensioners in England and Wales are expected to lose their winter fuel payments under new plans announced by Chancellor Rachel Reeves.
The new Labour Government said this would save £1.4 billion this year.
Money Saving Expert founder Martin Lewis says changing the winter fuel payment will affect ‘the hardest hit’
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Mr Lewis said: “Yet again, those just above the thresholds will be hardest hit. Many pensioners eke out the £100 to £300 winter fuel payments to allow them to keep some heating on through the cold months.
“While there’s an argument for ending its universality due to tight national finances, it’s being squeezed to too narrow a group — just those on benefits and pension credit.”
Here’s what you need to know about the winter fuel payment.
What is the winter fuel payment?
It is a tax-free annual payment the Government provides to help older people with their heating costs during the winter.
The Labour government of Tony Blair introduced the payment in 1997 to tackle fuel poverty among older people. The goal was to provide financial support to help pensioners with the costs of heating their homes during the cold winter months.
The payments were previously a universal benefit for all pensioners until this year’s mean-testing move.
Who is eligible for winter fuel payment?
The amount you receive depends on your age and living situation. For example:
From 2024, only pensioners receiving other benefits such as universal credit or pension credit will qualify for the winter fuel payment.
Many have argued that pensioners only receive pension credit if their annual income is below £11,336.
Age UK said it would fight the decision and have launched a petition.
Scotland no longer provides the universal winter fuel payment for all pensioners.
Instead, the Scottish Government has introduced the winter heating payment, an annual allowance of £58.75 for those receiving certain benefits.
When will eligible people receive their winter fuel payment?
You’ll get a letter telling you:
- how much you’ll get
- the bank account it will be paid into — usually the same one as your pension credit or other benefits.
How to apply if you think you should be eligible for the winter fuel payment
If you think you should be eligible for the winter fuel payment but haven’t received it automatically, you can apply by following these steps:
- Check eligibility: Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria mentioned above.
- Gather information: Have your National Insurance number, bank or building society details, and the date you were married or entered into a civil partnership (if applicable) ready.
- Apply by phone or post: By phone: Call the Winter Fuel Payment Centre. The phone number can be found on the UK Government website. By post: Download the claim form from the UK Government website, fill it out, and send it to the address provided on the form.
- Submit your claim: Make sure to submit your claim by the deadline, usually around the end of March for that winter season.
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