Government figures show that about 61,300 claims for the benefit were made in the 16 weeks before the July announcement – but this has jumped to about 150,000 claims in the 16 weeks since the announcement.
Retirees need to make a Pension Credit application by 21 December to qualify for the Winter Fuel Payment, which is worth up to £300 per year (2024/25).
The Government announced in July that from this winter onwards, only pensioners receiving Pension Credit would get the winter fuel cash. Previously, it was an automatic payout to people over the state pension age. Those pensioners that are still eligible for the payment started to receive it in their bank accounts this week.
Pension Credit has historically been underclaimed, with more than a third of those eligible failing to fill out the relevant forms each year. Not only do these pensioners miss out on up to £3,900 per year in Pension Credit payments, but they could be missing out on other cash too. This is because Pension Credit works as a gateway to several other benefits such as housing benefit, dental treatment and free TV licences (if you are aged 75 or over).
Rosie Hooper, chartered financial planner at Quilter Cheviot: “The last date for making a backdated claim for Pension Credit to receive the Winter Fuel Payment is now less than a month away, so it is vitally important that pensioners on low incomes check their eligibility. Anyone who thinks they may be eligible, or anyone with relatives or loved ones over the state pension age who they believe may be entitled, should check the criteria and ensure their application is submitted before 21 December.
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“Those who are eligible would not only benefit by regaining the Winter Fuel Payment, worth either £200 or £300 depending on age, but they would also receive Pension Credit to top up their income.”
What is Pension Credit?
In 2024/25, if you are over the state pension age (66), single and your income is less than £218.15 per week, then Pension Credit will top you up to that amount. For a couple, the combined income figure is £332.95.
In relation to Pension Credit, your income includes your state pension, other pensions, employment or self-employment earnings and most other benefits. As with the state pension, it is up to you to claim Pension Credit.
