Over 1.4 million UK pensioners, including 250,000 in Scotland, are expected to receive a Winter Fuel Payment of either £200 or £300 by the end of next week. The payments are intended to help eligible individuals manage rising winter energy costs. The DWP urges those who haven't received their payment by January 29th to contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre as they may need to make a claim.
Approximately 1.4 million individuals in the United Kingdom, including 250,000 residing in Scotland , are anticipated to receive a Winter Fuel Payment of either £200 or £300 before the end of next week.
While the majority of payments were automatically disbursed throughout November and December, guidance from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) stipulates that if pensioners do not receive a letter or the funds are not deposited into their account by 29 January 2025, they should contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre as they may need to file a claim. The payment will be reflected in bank accounts with a reference number starting with the customer's National Insurance number followed by 'DWP WFP.' Pensioners are strongly advised to meticulously scrutinize their bank statements for this reference number before contacting the Winter Fuel Payment Centre at 0800 731 0160. Following a modification to the eligibility criteria last summer, only individuals aged 66 or older who receive a means-tested benefit such as Pension Credit, Universal Credit (for mixed-age couples), or Tax Credits (with an annual award of at least £26) during the qualifying week of September 16-22 will be eligible for a payment this winter. Individuals residing abroad are also required to submit a claim for this year's Winter Fuel Payment. Eligibility for the Winter Fuel Payment 2024/25 can be obtained if you were born before September 23, 1958. You must also reside in England, Wales, or Northern Ireland and receive one of the following: Pension Credit, Universal Credit (mixed-age couples), or Tax Credits (with an annual award of at least £26). Additionally, you must have been receiving one of the aforementioned means-tested benefits during the qualifying week of September 16 to 22, 2024. In certain situations, eligibility may exist for individuals residing abroad - further details can be found on GOV.UK. Ineligibility for the Winter Fuel Payment exists in the following circumstances: if you live in a care home and receive a full care allowance from your local council, or if you are receiving certain benefits such as the New Style Employment and Support Allowance, or Income Support. People in Scotland may be eligible for a comparable payment from the Scottish Government - Pension Age Winter Heating Payment. This payment will be administered by the DWP. To make a claim, individuals can do so either by post or phone
WINTER FUEL PAYMENT PENSIONS UK SCOTLAND ENERGY COSTS DEPARTMENT FOR WORK AND PENSIONS
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