Martin Lewis issues 'last chance' warning to claim Winter Fuel Payment worth £300
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Martin Lewis has issued an urgent warning ahead of a key Winter Fuel Payment deadline. The MoneySavingExpert.com founder explained how time is running out for thousands of pensioners to check their eligibility for Pension Credit, which unlocks the Winter Fuel Payment. Pension Credit can be backdated by three months and you’ve only got today to apply by phone, or tomorrow if you’re applying online, to put in a claim for Pension Credit and still get a Winter Fuel Payment for this year.
In a video posted to social media, Martin Lewis warned 700,000 people could be missing out on Pension Credit. He said: "I’d urgently suggest any state pensioners on lower income check now if you’re eligible for Pension Credit, which is a top-up to your income worth typically £4,000 a year. Do it now, you’ll also get the Winter Fuel Payment.
"As for what a lower income is, well if you’re a single pensioner, I’d be checking if I had an income under a total of £235 a week. I’m not saying you’ll get it - I’m saying it’s worth checking at that level. Same if you’re a couple, both state pensioners, income under around £350 a week. But if you get Attendance Allowance or you have very high housing costs, you may still be eligible on income higher than that.".
Pension Credit boosts your weekly income and as well as unlocking the Winter Fuel Payment, you also become entitled to other financial help, such as free dental treatment and vouchers for glasses or contact lenses, or a free TV licence if you're over the age of 75.
