Economic illiteracy from @UKLabour. Restricting Winter Fuel Payments to those on pension credit will see more pensioners going on to that benefit to qualify. Similar behavioural effects when free TV licenses were restricted to those on benefits. (1/3) https://t.co/ZBJmRPEmyI
— Mel Stride (@MelJStride) August 2, 2024
The UK government has announced significant changes to the Winter Fuel Payment, a benefit that helps older people with their heating costs during the colder months. Chancellor Rachel Reeves confirmed that only those on specific means-tested benefits will now be eligible for the payment, which previously was available to all pensioners. While the Winter Fuel Payment, ranging from £300 to £600, is now limited to pensioners on benefits like Pension Credit, many other subsidies and allowances are still available for older Britons.
Pension Credit provides extra income and acts as a gateway to other types of support.
I fear that the National Pensioners Convention will be proved right in its assessment of the harm the cut in Winter Fuel Allowance will cause. Not surprising most of the commentators supporting cut are rich enough not to need it. Need for a rethink on this https://t.co/4W6K8DmVuK
— John McDonnell (@johnmcdonnellMP) August 2, 2024
A Government spokesperson said the government remains committed to helping pensioners by keeping the triple lock on pensions, working on the Warm Homes Plan to reduce energy bills, and cutting NHS waiting lists. Given the current challenges with public finances, the spokesperson felt targeting Winter Fuel Payments to those most in need was necessary.
In exclusive analysis for @michaelsavage at @ObserverUK we find that one million households will miss out this year due to the changes announced to the #WinterFuelPayments https://t.co/b9PmH0s7lF 1/6
— Policy in Practice (@policy_practice) August 4, 2024
Here are some of the key benefits and discounts that state pensioners can still claim, worth up to £11,600 in total:
Pension Credit – This tops up weekly income to £218.15 for single people or £332.95 for couples. It also opens the door to other financial help. Attendance Allowance – Worth up to £5,644 per year, this helps with extra costs if you have a disability.
So much for all the columnists like P T*ynbee saying people don't need them. It's wrong to cut themhttps://t.co/wiiAs7j220
— Catherine Taylor (@KatyaTaylor) August 4, 2024
Winter fuel benefit eligibility changes
National Insurance Cut – Pensioners stop paying National Insurance when they reach state pension age, saving around £1,394 per year for someone earning £30,000. Free Prescriptions – Available to everyone aged 60 and over, saving about £119 per year.
Free Bus Pass – You can get this at the state pension age, providing free off-peak bus travel locally. Free TV Licence – If you are over 75 and get a Pension Credit, you can get a free TV license worth £169. Discounted Rail Fare – The Senior Railcard costs £30 per year and saves you about £142 per year on average.
Cold Weather Payment—£25 is paid automatically to eligible people when the temperature drops below zero for seven days in a row. Council Tax Reductions—The discount depends on your age, income, savings, and who lives with you. Some pensioners can get significant reductions.
Experts are urging all pensioners to check what they are entitled to and apply for any benefits they can get to help boost their income as the cost of living rises.
