Time is running out to claim the Winter Fuel Payment (Image: Getty)
Pensioners across the UK are rapidly running out of time to claim their . The Department for Work and Pension () should have already sent letters out, informing pensioners about changes to the eligibility for the .
Older people who receive a means-tested benefit such as Pension Credit, Tax Credits (an annual award of at least £26) or Universal Credit (mixed couples only), during any day of the qualifying week (September 16-22), will be eligible for a , and will automatically receive a payment of £200 into their bank account. Those aged over 80 will receive £300.
Those over 80 residing in care homes will receive £150. However, the has stressed that if you do not receive a letter or the money has not been deposited into your account by January 29, 2025, you should contact the Centre.
The is explained as follows: those born before 23rd September 1958 and receiving a qualifying income-related benefit such as Pension Credit during the week of 16th-22nd September 2024 will automatically receive the tax-free payment that won’t affect other benefits. Most eligible individuals should have received their payments in November or December, paid into the bank account where their or benefits are usually deposited.
To be eligible for the this year, you must have been born before September 23, 1958, reside in Scotland, England or Wales, and receive one of the following benefits:
- Income Support
- Working Tax or Child Tax Credits
- Pension Credit
- Universal Credit
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
Elderly individuals, or their friends and family, can quickly check eligibility and estimate potential benefits using the online Pension Credit calculator on
Alternatively, pensioners can directly contact the Pension Credit helpline to make a claim by calling 0800 99 1234 – the lines are open from 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday.
The Centre can also be contacted via post or phone. They will likely ask for personal details including your name, address, date of birth, and National Insurance Number.
If you’re in the UK, you can dial 0800 731 0160, while if you’re outside the UK, you can dial +44 (0)191 218 7777. Lines are generally open Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm.
You can also send a letter to the Centre at the following address: Centre, Mail Handling Site A, Wolverhampton, WV98 1ZU.