With households across Scotland and the UK struggling amid the worsening cost of living crisis, many will be issued with a Winter Fuel Payment.
When the Energy Price Guarantee comes into effect on October 1, energy bills will increase again, further stretching household budgets. As a result, people struggling financially fear they will be unable to afford to keep warm this winter.
Older people may be eligible for a Winter Fuel Payment, which could be a lifeline when the weather turns cold as bills continue to soar. They may also qualify for the Pensioner Cost of Living Payment, which could provide them with an extra £300 boost.
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Those born before September 25, 1956, could qualify for between £250 and £600 from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), including both the Winter Fuel Payment and the Pensioner Cost of Living Payment.
In order to be eligible for the money, you must have been living in the UK for at least one day this week, September 19-25. Approximately 12 million people across the country are set to get the payment.
Who is eligible for a Winter Fuel Payment
According to the UK Government, in order to be eligible for a Winter Fuel Payment, you must have been born on or prior to September 25, 1956. You must also have been living in the UK for one day or more during the week beginning September 19.
As reported by Coventry Live, if you were not living in the UK during the qualifying week, you still may be eligible for the money if both of the following statements are true:
- You are living in Switzerland or a European Economic Area (EEA) country
- You have a legitimate and acceptable link to the UK, including having lived or worked in the UK or having family in the UK
The amount of money you will receive is dependent on your circumstances, such as whether you live alone and whether you are on benefits.
You will not receive the money if you:
- Have been in hospital receiving free treatment for over a year
- Require permission to come into the UK and your granted leave prevents you from claiming public funds
- Were imprisoned for the period of 19 to 25 September 2022
- Resided in a care home for the entire period of June 27 to September 25 and received Pension Credit, Income Support, income-based Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA) or income-related Employment and Support Allowance
When will the Winter Fuel Payment be paid
The Winter Fuel Payment, as well as the Pensioner Cost of Living Payment, will be paid in either November or December. Those who are eligible will receive a letter informing them how much they will get.
If you do not get a letter, or do not receive the money by January 13, 2023, get in touch with the Winter Fuel Payment Centre.
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