The DWP has confirmed the cash will go to most people born before September 22, 1958 who also receive pension credit or other means-tested benefits
The Department for Work and Pensions has outlined who will be eligible for this year's Winter Fuel Payment, following significant changes to the criteria. The annual payment, which ranges from £100 to £300, is typically distributed in the lead-up to Christmas .
The DWP has confirmed that most individuals born before 22 September 1958 who also receive pension credit or other means-tested benefits will receive the cash. Previously, all pensioners were eligible for the Winter Fuel Payment, but this will no longer be the case due to a contentious cost-cutting decision by the new Labour Government.
Payments are expected to be automatically distributed to those who meet the criteria over a six-week period starting from mid-November. The amount received by pensioners will depend on their circumstances and the number of people living in their household. This substantial change, announced by new Chancellor Rachel Reeves, means that approximately 10 million older individuals will no longer receive the Winter Fuel Payment, which is intended to assist with energy bills during the colder months. Many other pensioners are considered financially stable enough to manage without the payment, reports Birmingham Live.
The Age UK charity elaborated on the benefit, stating: "The Winter Fuel Payment is an annual payment to help you with heating costs during the colder months. The Government announced in July 2024 that, from this year onwards, to be eligible you must have been born on or before 22 September 1958 and receive Pension Credit, Universal Credit, Income Support, income-based Jobseeker's Allowance or income-related Employment and Support Allowance.
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