An estimated 880,000 people could be eligible for Pension Credit which now provides access to Winter Fuel Payments. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced that the UK Government will work with external partners and local authorities to “boost the uptake” of Pension Credit and to “target additional support to those who need it most”. The post on social media confirms Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ plan to get more people of State Pension age claiming the annual income top-up worth an average of £3,900.
Last week, the Chancellor announced that Winter Fuel Payments will no longer be paid to all State Pensioners, but will instead only be issued to those on income-related benefits such as Pension Credit. She also said the UK Government would drive take-up by looking at Housing Benefit claimants - administered by local authorities across Great Britain - to flag up potential entitlement for Pension Credit. Winter Fuel Payment is a one-off lump sum worth between £100 and £300 designed to help cover the costs of higher heating bills during the colder months.
The latest DWP figures suggest around 880,000 older people are eligible for Pension Credit, but not claiming. Pension Credit currently provides financial support and access to other benefits and discounts to 1.4 million people across Great Britain, including nearly 127,000 living in Scotland.
Older people in receipt of Universal Credit, Income Support, Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance or Income-relate.