Previously the tax-free benefit was available to everyone above state pension age, but now it will be limited to people over state pension age who are receiving pension credit or other means-tested support.
Pensioners are being urged to check if they are eligible for the winter fuel allowance after universal payments were scrapped. Last month Chancellor Rachel Reeves said that the tax free benefit, to help older people with higher heating costs during the colder months, would be limited to those on pension credit. The surprise move was part of efforts to plug a £22bn hole in the public finances which Labour accused the Conservatives of 'covering up' during their time in office.
The government's awareness drive will help identify households not claiming the benefit, and encourage pensioners to apply by 21 December - the last date for making a backdated claim for pension credit in order to receive the Winter Fuel Payment. It will focus on 'myths' that may stop people applying, such as how having savings, a pension or owning a home are not necessarily barriers to receiving pension credit.
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