Older residents are being urged to check if they are eligible to claim Pension Credit following the government’s decision to stop the £300 winter fuel payment for some pensioners, with millions set to lose out.
Pension Credit gives you extra money to help with your living costs if you are over state pension age and on a low income.
This year, the winter fuel payment is £200 for those on certain benefits and born between 23rd September, 1944 and 22nd September 1958. For those born before 23rd September 1944, and on certain benefits, it will be £300.
However, many residents may be eligible to receive Pension Credit, which would enable them to receive the winter fuel payment.
To receive Pension Credit, you must have reached state pension age and have a weekly income below £218.15 if single, or £332.95 if you are in a couple.
Pension Credit is usually paid automatically in November or December. The vast majority of those eligible will only receive winter fuel payments if they have first registered to receive Pension Credit, which is a state pension top-up.
To find out if you are eligible, see https://www.gov.uk/winter-fuel-payment/how-to-claim or call Age UK’s free advice line on 0800 678 1602. The charity offers advice about pension credits, how to find out if you are eligible and help with applying if necessary.
Age UK has also launched a campaign called Save The Winter Fuel Payment for Struggling Pensioners. For more information see https://www.ageuk.org.uk/our-impact/campaigning/save-the-winter-fuel-payment/
To help fill out and navigate online forms for pension credit, digital support volunteers in Melksham library are on hand to assist.
