State pensioners warned over £300 December deadline

Hundreds of thousands of pensioners are being warned about a fast-approaching deadline to claim up to £300. The final deadline for claiming Pension Credit to qualify for the Winter Fuel Payment will pass on December 21.

The Winter Fuel Payment, worth up to £300, is no longer being paid out to all pensioners. Older people need to be getting Pension Credit in order to qualify.

But there are hundreds of thousands who don't claim Pension Credit despite being eligible. This means they will miss out on the Winter Fuel Payment even though they are considered to be on a low income.

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It could leave these people facing a crisis this winter without the extra money to help pay crucial bills. People who don't claim Pension Credit but think they could be eligible for it are being urged to apply by December 21.

Loved ones are also being asked to help their older relatives, friends or neighbours check. Age UK said: "Previously, anyone over state pension age would also have received an annual Winter Fuel Payment of between £100-£300, but Government changes mean that this will now only paid to those in receipt of Pension Credit.

"The deadline for applications for the Winter Fuel Payment is December 21, 2024, so residents need to apply for Pension Credit before then." Teresa Baxter, from the Solihull branch, added: “The changes to the Winter Fuel Allowance entitlement will be a huge blow to many pensioners.

"We are urging older Solihull residents to check whether they are eligible for Pension Credit or other benefits. Even if you think you’re just over the threshold, there may be factors that mean you are actually eligible. If you’ve had a check in the past it’s worth doing one again.”