State pensioners born earlier than this yr get prompt £100 winter gas cost enhance

The amount you get is based on when you were born and your circumstances between September 16 and 22, 2024

Millions of state pensioners are set to lose their £300 winter fuel payment if they no longer claim a qualifying benefit, following the government’s decision to make the payment means-tested rather than universal.

However, what many may not be aware of is that even if you do qualify for the winter fuel payment this year, the exact amount you can receive will vary depending on your birth year and potentially other circumstances.

Previously, the winter fuel payment was automatically given to all state pensioners. However, under the new rules, you need to be claiming a qualifying benefit such as Pension Credit.

For those who are of state pension age but under 80, meaning born on or before September 22, 1958, and qualify, a £200 payment will be received. Meanwhile, those aged over 80 – born September 23, 1944 or earlier – will receive £300.

The amount you receive is determined by your birth date and your circumstances between September 16 and 22, 2024, known as the ‘qualifying week’. If you missed it, you can backdate Pension Credit claims until December, so it’s still available now, reports the Express.

This implies that if you are now over 80 and qualify, your winter fuel payment will increase from £200 to £300.

Most qualifying individuals will receive a letter detailing how much they’ll get and into which bank account it will be paid – usually the same as your Pension Credit or other benefits.

Age UK has dished out some crucial advice for those feeling the chill, stating: “If you or your partner claims Pension Credit, Income Support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance or income-related Employment and Support Allowance, the payment should go to the main claimant of the benefit automatically.”

The charity didn’t stop there, adding: “If you’ve never received a winter fuel payment before, or if you claim Universal Credit, you might need to make a claim. And if you receive Child Tax Credit or Working Tax Credit, you must make a claim.”

They’ve also given a heads-up on when to expect the extra quid in your pocket: “You should receive your payment between mid-November and Christmas.

“Call the winter fuel payment helpline on 0800 731 0160 if you have any enquiries or you don’t receive your payment.”

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