Under the current Labour Government’s stringent new rules, approximately 10 million UK pensioners are poised to miss out on their £300 Winter Fuel Payment this year.
Consequently, scores of elderly individuals are taking another look at Pension Credit, even after previous rejections because everyone receiving it will get the cost of living help.
Chief Executive of charity Independent Age, Joanna Elson, echoed this sentiment in her advice to The Telegraph: “We are urging people in later life on a low income to try again.”
She highlighted a significant increase in inquiries to their helpline regarding Pension Credit claims following the changes to Winter Fuel Payment eligibility.
Elson pointed out that for some pensioners, the challenge lies in the documentation required for the Pension Credit application process, which can be extensive and daunting, with long delays also reported in decision making.
Applicants often have to produce various proofs, such as bank statements and income evidence, a formidable hurdle amidst the 243 questions asked on the form.
Starting this winter, only pensioners who qualify for Pension Credit will receive the £300 seasonal benefit. It’s worth noting that Pension Credit, which supplements income to ensure single pensioners have at least £218.15 per week and couples £332.95 per week, has not been claimed as widely as it could be.
There are notable exceptions to the rule, as individuals with incomes exceeding these thresholds may still qualify if they have a disability, care responsibilities, or housing costs.
There are 4 main questions when considering whether a pensioner may get Pension Credit:
- How old are they?
- If they have a partner who lives with them, how how old is their partner?
- What is their weekly income? Is it less that £218.15 if they are single or £332.95 if they are a couple?
- Do they have any savings?
To claim the Winter Fuel Payment this year, pensioners must initiate their Pension Credit claim by December 21, 2024.
A DWP spokesperson said: “We have surged additional staff to process the increase in pension credit claims and continue to urge anyone who thinks they may be entitled to check now.”
“All eligible claims will be backdated as we make sure the most vulnerable pensioners still receive the winter fuel payment, as well as providing a £460 uplift in the state pension for more than 12 million people through our commitment to the triple lock.”
