DWP Winter Fuel Payment warning as deadline approaches

manchestereveningnews.co.uk:

Pensioners across the country are quickly running out of time to make a claim for the Winter Fuel Payment. Many older people should have already received letters from the Department for Work and Pension (DWP) informing them of changes to the Winter Fuel Payment eligibility.

Pensioners 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 Winter Fuel Payment worth £200.

For those aged over 80, the payment is £300, while those over 80 residing in care homes will receive £150. DWP guidance states that if you do not receive a letter or the money has not been deposited into your account by January 29, you should contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre.

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.