The government is changing the eligibility criteria for Winter Fuel Payments in 2024. Find everything you need to know and check if you’re eligible.
Winter Fuel Payments will be stopped for millions of pensioners this year as the benefit becomes means-tested, meaning eligibility will now be determined by an assessment of a person’s or family’s financial situation. Read more about the changes and see if you qualify.
How much is the Winter Fuel Payment?
The Winter Fuel Payment, also known as the Heating Allowance, is a tax-free payment towards the cost of heating bills. People aged between 66 and 79 receive £200, and those over 80 receive £300. It’s typically paid in November or December automatically, and the amount you get is based on your circumstances during the qualifying week of 16 to 22 September 2024.
How are the Winter Fuel Payments changing in 2024?
Previously, all pensioners received the Winter Fuel Payment. However, on 29 July 2024, the government announced cuts to the scheme. It will now only be available to people who are in receipt of Pension Credit or certain other means-tested benefits. The changes are part of a plan to reduce government spending and support low-income pensioners specifically.
Winter Fuel Payment eligibility
In addition to meeting the age requirements, a pensioner household must be entitled to at least one of the following:
Child Tax Credit or Working Tax Credit award of no less than £26 in the tax year 2024/25
Universal Credit
Pension Credit
Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
Income Support
Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
Who is not eligible for the Winter Fuel Payment?
You will not be eligible for the Winter Fuel Payment if you:
live in Scotland
were in prison in the week of 16 to 22 September 2024
have been in hospital for more than a year, getting free treatment
were living in a care home for the full duration of 24 June to 22 September 2024
What is Pension Credit, and how is it linked?
Pension Credit plays a key role in this change; it’s a means-tested benefit that provides extra support for pensioners on low incomes. Applying for Pension Credit may entitle them to the Winter Fuel Payment, as well as other benefits like the Warm Home Discount or Cold Weather Payments. With one in three people entitled to Pension Credit who are not currently claiming it, we recommend using the Pension Credit calculator to see if you qualify.
How can I get support if I’m not eligible for the Winter Fuel Payment?
Understandably, many people may be worried about not receiving the Winter Fuel Payment in 2024. Here are some ways to get more support to help you through the colder months:
1. Check if you’re eligible for extra benefits
Did you know that you could be entitled to benefits you don’t know about? Use our confidential and free benefits calculator to ensure you’re not missing out on valuable financial support. In just ten minutes, you can find out if you qualify for extra income. To date, over 24,000 people have uncovered benefits they didn’t realise were available to them.
2. Check if you’re eligible for free grants
Don’t miss out on grants that don’t need to be repaid. The Turn2us Grants Search can help you find funding opportunities you may qualify for. Even a small amount of extra income could make a big difference, especially during the winter months.
3. Get more support
If you’re not receiving the Winter Fuel Payment in 2024 and are worried about how this might affect you, don’t struggle alone. Get help near you through CAP and find ways to manage your money or access expert debt help.
If you just need someone to talk to, reach out to friends, family, or call Samaritans for free on 116 123. You may also find more support in your community through your local church.
