DWP winter fuel payment warning issued as thousands missing out on up to £300

manchestereveningnews.co.uk:

Thousands of Mancunians are missing out on a key benefit they’re entitled to, it’s been revealed. The unclaimed cash is thought to be worth £24 million in Manchester alone.

It’s estimated some 8,100 Mancs are entitled to pension credit — but are not claiming it, for whatever reason. Now, it’s been revealed that recent cuts to the winter fuel allowance by the government means residents eligible for pension credit will miss out on the benefit if they do not claim in the next three months.

Changes in the law mean they only have until December 21 to ‘get what they deserve’. READ MORE: As he lay in bed fast asleep, he was completely unaware his life was about to change "We're really concerned that some people might feel like they are being a burden, or that they are taking money they don't deserve,” said Joanna Midgley, Labour’s deputy council leader. “That's absolutely wrong: the system is there for a reason and it is money that has already been allocated to help people.” Coun Midgley went on to ‘urge everyone with pension-age family or friends to encourage them to apply for the grant if they think they are eligible for it’.

Those who think they might be eligible should call the Independent Age helpline on 0800 319 6789, (open Monday to Friday 8.30am-5.30pm), or head to the government’s website for more information.