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.  

An award of Pension Credit can also passport pensioners to a range of other benefits such as help with housing costs, council tax, heating bills and for those aged 75 or over, a free TV license. 

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 

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.  

**IMPORTANT UPDATE ABOUT PENSION CREDIT APPLICATIONS**: 

The deadline for Pension Credit applications is 22 September 2024. However, pensioners can still apply for Pension Credit up to 21 December 2024 and ask for it to be backdated by up to three months. As long as the applicant has met the Pension Credit entitlement since 22 September 2024, they will also qualify for the Winter Fuel Payment.