Despite thousands of individuals losing eligibility for Winter Fuel Payments, there are still avenues for additional assistance for many people. Over 10 million pensioners across the UK will not receive Winter Fuel Payments this year, following the Labour Government’s decision to restrict the annual heating bill aid to those claiming some means-tested benefits.
Previously, it was available to everyone over state pension age, regardless of their financial situation. However, there is still some extra financial support available for those missing out on the Winter Fuel Payment this year.
This includes support specifically aimed at making energy bills more affordable during the winter period. Here is what is available:
Cold Weather Payments – £25
The Cold Weather Payment scheme provides financial assistance to eligible homes when temperatures drop below a certain threshold for a set duration. The DWP awards households £25 for every seven-day period where the average temperature in their area falls to zero degrees or below.
The £25 payments are automatically made to households receiving certain benefits including Pension Credit, Income Support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA), income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), Universal Credit, and Support for Mortgage Interest.
Warm Home Discount – £150
The Warm Home Discount Scheme, which offers a £150 reduction on electricity bills to those on certain benefits, underwent changes in its eligibility rules in 2022. This could mean that some individuals may no longer qualify, while others might need to apply – particularly those residing in Scotland, as they will not receive the discount directly.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) pays energy suppliers directly between October and March. Households that qualify may also be able to get the discount off their gas bill if their supplier provides both gas and electricity.
All they need to do is contact their supplier once the scheme opens. If you’re a credit customer, the £150 will be added to your electricity account.
If you’re on Pay As You Go or Prepayment, you’ll receive a voucher to top-up your meter.
DWP Christmas Bonus – £10
In addition, the DWP Christmas Bonus is a one-off, tax-free £10 payment made to people receiving state pension or certain other benefits. There’s no need to apply for the extra £10 as it should automatically go into the account where you usually receive your state pension or benefit payment.
It’s made as a separate payment, independent of your scheduled state pension or benefit payment, so it may arrive on a different day.
