DWP to automatically pay £300 to Britons born before a certain date | UK | News

This winter, the most financially vulnerable pensioners will receive a Winter Fuel Payment of up to £300. People on pension credit and other qualifying benefits are eligible for this support.

However, in a departure from previous years, not all pensioners will benefit from this payment. The funds are expected to be deposited into the bank accounts of eligible recipients between November and Christmas.

The scheme is intended to help the poorest pensioners, particularly those born on or before September 22, 1958, manage their heating bills during the colder months. However, the Labour government’s decision to cut payments for millions has sparked outrage.

Pensioners who are not currently receiving Pension Credit are encouraged to check their eligibility as this is a crucial factor in qualifying for the Winter Fuel Payment. An estimated 900,000 people are not claiming Pension Credit despite being entitled to it, which could result in them missing out on winter relief.

Age UK has clarified: “The Winter Fuel Payment is an annual payment to help you with your heating bills during the colder months. The government announced in July 2024 that from this year, you must be of state pension age and also be receiving a qualifying means-tested benefit to be eligible.”

“The Winter Fuel Payment is an annual tax-free payment for households with someone born on or before 22 September 1958 (for 2024/25) who receive Pension Credit, Universal Credit, Income Support, Income-related Jobseeker Allowance or Income-related Employment and Support Allowance from 2024, or an award of Child Tax Credit or Working Tax Credit of at least £26 for the 2024/25 tax year.”

“If you are of retirement age and in receipt of a qualifying benefit, you can get £200 towards your bills. If you are over 80, you can get £300 to help with your bills this winter. Payments are made to the person claiming the benefit and are for the household.”