Many pensioners were dismayed to learn that Rachel Reeves and the new government is limiting Winter Fuel Payments to those who are on benefits and in receipt of Pension Credits. The Winter Fuel Payment was a key benefit to help older people with increased heating costs during winter, that was previously paid to all pensioners. However, with recent changes, the payment is now means-tested and linked to eligibility for Pension Credit.

Since the announcement it has become clear that many Pensioners would be eligible for Pension Credit but are not currently claiming. 

Here’s what you need to know to make sure you, or your loved ones, don’t miss out.

Check your eligibility for Pension Credit

Pension Credit is a vital financial lifeline for many pensioners, especially those on a low income. While around 1.4 million pensioners already claim this benefit, it’s estimated that up to 880,000 eligible households have yet to apply.

If your weekly income is below £218.15 for a single person or £332.95 for a couple, you could be eligible for Pension Credit, which is worth an average of £3,900 a year.

Claiming Pension Credit not only boosts your income but also unlocks additional financial help, such as reduced housing costs, council tax reductions, and now, the Winter Fuel Payment.

The importance of claiming before the deadline

To receive this year’s Winter Fuel Payment, you need to be eligible for Pension Credit during the qualifying week from the 16th to the 22nd September 2024.

To ensure you don’t miss out, you must apply for Pension Credit by the 21st December 2024. This allows for your claim to be backdated, covering the qualifying week and securing your entitlement to the Winter Fuel Payment.

The government is actively encouraging pensioners to check their eligibility and apply as soon as possible. During September, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will be running a Pension Credit Week of Action, teaming up with local authorities and charities to raise awareness and tackle misconceptions that might prevent people from applying.

Don’t let Urban Myths dissuade you!

Many pensioners mistakenly believe that having savings, a private pension, or owning a home disqualifies them from receiving Pension Credit. 

This is not necessarily the case.

The DWP’s online Pension Credit calculator can help you determine how much you could receive based on your individual circumstances.

How to apply for Pension Credit

Applying for Pension Credit can be done in several ways:

• Online: Visit the Pension Credit page on GOV.UK and use the online application form.

• By Phone: Call the Pension Credit claim line on 0800 99 1234 (Monday to Friday, 8 am to 6 pm).

• By Post: Download and complete a paper application form from the GOV.UK website.

When you apply, you’ll be asked if you want to backdate your claim to cover the three months prior to your application date, ensuring you meet the qualifying period for the Winter Fuel Payment.

Act now to secure your benefits

With winter not too far away, it’s important to check your eligibility and apply for Pension Credit as soon as possible.

This not only secures your entitlement to the Winter Fuel Payment but also ensures you receive the financial support you deserve. If you or a loved one could benefit from Pension Credit, now is the time to get this sorted out.

One word of warning: Early indications are that the DWP has been swamped with applications for Pension Credit since the recent Winter Fuel announcement, so claims are going to take longer than they may otherwise have done to come through. Once yours is in the system though, any payments should be backdated once the process has been completed.