DWP warning as over a million pensioners missing out on extra £5,644 a year
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Approximately 10 million individuals over the State Pension age across Great Britain, including 850,000 residing in Scotland, will lose their eligibility for Winter Fuel Payments due to changes in the UK Government's rules. Despite hopes for a reversal of this decision by Chancellor Rachel Reeves during the Autumn Budget, it is unlikely that the Labour Government will do so, despite strong opposition from MPs, campaigns, charities and unions.
The loss of this annual financial aid, which can be up to £300, will be felt by numerous households this winter. However, older people with long-term illnesses, disabilities or physical or mental health conditions may not realise they could qualify for support through Attendance Allowance. This non-means-tested benefit is worth either £72.65 (lower rate) or £108.55 (higher rate) per week. As it is typically paid every four weeks, this equates to either £290.60 or £434.20 each pay period - totalling around £5,644.60 a year.
This makes it more than £5,314, so more valuable in additional financial support than the one-off annual Winter Fuel Payment. However, if you are over 66 and on a low income, it's crucial to check your entitlement to Pension Credit, which is worth approximately £3,900 annually and serves as a gateway to other support, including help with housing costs, Council Tax and Winter Fuel Payments. To quickly check eligibility for Pension Credit, older people or their friends and family can use the online Pension Credit calculator on GOV.UK. Alternatively, pensioners can call the Pension Credit helpline directly to make a claim on 0800 99 1234 - lines are open from 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday.
