Around 10 million people over State Pension age across Great Britain, including 850,000 living in Scotland, will no longer be eligible for Winter Fuel Payments following the Labour Government's change to the eligibility rules.
From this winter, the annual heating bill help of up to £300 will only be issued to those over 66 in receipt of an income-related benefit such as Pension Credit.
However, while the loss of this extra financial help will be felt by so many households this winter, many may not be aware they could be eligible for two separate benefits , worth a combined total of up to nearly £10,000 each year.Pension Credit helps those over State Pension age on a low income by boosting annual income by around £3,900 on average while Attendance Allowance can provide additional financial support of up to £434 each month - some £5,644 each year - for those with a long-term health condition or disability.
There are nearly 12.7 million people over State Pension age and the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) estimates that 880,000 are eligible for Pension Credit and not claiming the income-related benefit.
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