Support coping with rising living costs
Winter Fuel Payments & Pension Credit
Changes to Winter Fuel Payment
The UK Government recently announced they are changing eligibility for Winter Fuel Payment. From this year, only people getting certain qualifying benefits, like Pension Credit, will get the payment.
For winter 2024-2025, the Department for Work and Pensions will continue to make payments of Winter Fuel Payments to eligible older people in Scotland.
Find the latest information on energy support for this Winter - Secure benefits to help pay for winter heating
Check if you are eligible for Pension Credit
Pension Credit is the main qualifying benefit for older people to receive the Winter Fuel Payment, therefore it is important to check if you are eligible.
Pension Credit is a means-tested benefit which tops up weekly income to a guaranteed minimum level of £218.15 a week for single pensioners or £332.95 for couples. Pensioners may be entitled to Pension Credit even though they may have modest savings, or a retirement income or own their own home
In addition to the Winter Fuel Payment, Pension Credit also provides extra support for heating costs such as The Warm Home Discount Scheme and Cold Weather Payments too. An award of Pension Credit can also passport pensioners to a range of other benefits such as help with housing costs, council tax, and for those aged 75 or over, a free TV licence.
Use the Pension Credit calculator to find out how much Pension Credit you or someone you know may be entitled to – without giving any personal details.
How to claim for Pension Credit – apply here.
Application deadline for backdated claims
Thanks to the Pension Credit backdating rules, it is possible to apply for Pension Credit and have the claim backdated by up to 3 months - so long as there is entitlement during that time. This means that the latest date to apply and still qualify for Winter Fuel Payment is 21st December 2024.
Do you need help to apply for Pension Credit?
If you need help with your Pension Credit application then please phone 0131 270 8922 to arrange an appointment with Midlothian Council’s Welfare Rights Service.
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