Extra DWP payments to be paid in October worth more than £1,050
Three payments totalling £1,050 from the Department for Work and Pensions are scheduled to be distributed in October. Amidst the ongoing cost of living crisis, UK households have been reassured that there are avenues to seek help if they find themselves in financial difficulty.
The DWP, in collaboration with the Labour Party government, is providing payments to assist people through the autumn and winter months. With energy bills escalating and Winter Fuel Allowances being reduced for some, it's vital to know what you're entitled to and when, reports Cambridgeshire Live.
As we approach the lengthy lead-up to Christmas, ensure you're aware of what you're due. Most individuals claiming DWP benefits will qualify for this year's £10 Christmas bonus. All state pensioners also qualify, regardless of their income.
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Warm Home Discount £150
The Warm Home Discount scheme provides a one-off payment of £150 to those who may struggle to meet their energy bills during the winter. If you reside in England or Wales and are eligible for the payment, there's no need to apply as the Government will automatically inform companies who to pay, according to Birmingham Live.
Two groups are eligible for the Warm Home Discount: Core Group 1 and Core Group 2. If you meet the criteria for these groups and have an energy supply on the qualification date (August 11, 2024), your provider will notify you of your eligibility by early December.
The discount can be applied anytime between October and March. The timing is determined by the energy companies.
Winter Fuel Payments – £300
Winter Fuel Payments, previously available to all pensioners and worth up to £300, are now being discontinued for everyone except the poorest. This year, only those receiving Pension Credit and certain other benefits will qualify for support.
Charities have expressed worries that this could leave approximately two million pensioners who narrowly miss the qualifying threshold struggling this winter. Compounding the issue, hundreds of thousands of pensioners fail to claim Pension Credit despite being eligible, risking missing out on winter fuel money they are entitled to.
Household Support Fund – up to £600
The Household Support Fund is set to continue, with the Labour Party government extending it beyond the original September end date set by the previous Tory administration. The Conservative Party introduced the fund, which involves the DWP distributing cash to local councils and authorities.
Some councils are distributing as much as £600.