DWP Warning: Apply Now for Key Benefit Before Winter Fuel Payment Cut-Off Deadline
People are being alerted to an approaching deadline for those interested in receiving the Winter Fuel Payment. Previously, all individuals of State Pension age received this allowance to assist with rising energy costs. However, the new Labour government has restricted eligibility to only those receiving Pension Credit. Applicants must be claiming the benefit during the qualifying week, which falls this year between September 16-22. In the last five weeks, the Department of Work and Pensions has already received 38,500 Pension Credit claims.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves recently announced the alteration in criteria for the Winter Fuel Payment, leaving many pensioners ineligible to receive up to £300 in support. Despite this, there are hundreds of thousands more individuals who could qualify for this benefit. This not only offers additional cash of nearly £4,000 but also provides access to various other financial assistance programs. The application process is simple, but to receive this year’s payment, applicants must apply for Pension Credit before the specified deadline.
Many are unaware that successful Pension Credit claims can be backdated up to three months, allowing for more time to apply if the initial deadline is missed. For those claiming Pension Credit after reaching State Pension age, December 21 is the final day to claim and guarantee a three-month backdating to align with the Winter Fuel Payment’s qualifying week. Phone applications must be submitted by Friday, September 20, as advised by Age UK. The charity emphasizes the significance of claiming Pension Credit as it serves as the primary pensioner benefit leading to Winter Fuel Payment qualification.
Caroline Abrahams, Age UK’s charity director, stresses the importance of assessing eligibility for additional winter assistance, mentioning that only 63% of those eligible for Pension Credit actually claim it. There is a considerable £1.7 billion fund awaiting entitled older individuals, which could significantly enhance their quality of life. Pension Credit opens doors to various forms of extra support, including financial aid for energy bills, Council Tax reduction, and free NHS dental treatment. Age UK provides a free Benefits Calculator for estimating potential benefits.
To apply for Pension Credit, individuals can contact the DWP Pension Credit claim line at 0800 99 1234 or visit the official government website for detailed instructions. Pension Credit applications are accepted via phone or online. Age UK is actively campaigning to protect the Winter Fuel Payment for struggling pensioners, urging individuals to consider signing their petition for continued support during the colder months.