People are being urged to claim in the next two days (Image: Getty)
State pensioners will lose £300 permanently in less than 48 hours from now unless they make one phone call today.
The final deadline to claim Pension Credit, and with it, a £300 , is set to pass on December 21.
This year, the is not being sent out automatically and instead, will be means tested. It means that only pensioners claiming Pension Credit will be eligible for the £200 to £300 payment.
Your Pension Credit claim can be backdated by three months, which means that you would be able to claim it backdated to September 21, which is the ‘qualifying week’ that you need to have had Pension Credit in place in order to qualify for a .
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But after this deadline passes on December 21, you will not be able to claim a at all this year.
Energy expert Gordon Wallis, from Your NRG, has urged pensioners to act swiftly to avoid missing out. “The next two days are critical for pensioners who may otherwise miss out on vital financial support this winter. The can make a significant difference in managing heating costs, particularly during colder months when energy use spikes,” he said.
“While the changes aim to focus resources on vulnerable groups, it’s important that eligible pensioners are informed and supported through the process of claiming Pension Credit. Many who qualify remain unaware of the assistance available,” Wallis added.
Pension Credit is a benefit designed to support low-income pensioners, guaranteeing a minimum weekly income of £218.15 for single pensioners and £332.95 for couples. Claiming Pension Credit not only opens the door to the but also provides access to other benefits, including help with housing costs, council tax reductions, and assistance with heating bills.
Wallis encouraged pensioners to check their eligibility and highlighted the role families and caregivers can play. “Family members and caregivers should step in to assist elderly relatives or friends who may struggle with the application process. Together, we can give more people access to the help they need this winter,” he said.
The article also notes that additional financial support is available for pensioners claiming disability benefits, such as and the Personal Independence Payment (PIP). Currently, 1.4 million pensioners receive Pension Credit, but many are still missing out on this financial lifeline.
He added: “For many pensioners, heating their homes isn’t just about comfort – it’s about safety. We strongly encourage anyone who thinks they might qualify to act now. At Your NRG, we’re committed to raising awareness and supporting the community during this challenging time.”
To apply, you can go online to gov.uk or call 0800 991234.