Winter Benefits Explained

Winter support for older people

We are all feeling the pinch as our energy bills creep higher. In England there are almost 2.5 million households that are deemed to be fuel poor and it is estimated in excess of 20,000 in Kirklees and over 14,000 in Calderdale. (A household is defined as 'fuel poor' if its total income is below the poverty line after taking into account energy costs and its energy costs are higher than average).

For older people and those in receipt of benefits there is some extra help over winter:

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Winter Fuel Payment

You could get between £100 and £300 tax-free to help pay your heating bills. This is known as a ”Winter Fuel Payment‟.

Last year 12.5 million people in 9 million households benefitted from the payment, which the vast majority received automatically. However if you need to claim, it's really simple: just call the Winter Fuel Helpline on 03459 151515 with your NI number and bank details to hand or complete the claim form at www.gov.uk/winter-fuel-payment/how-to-claim  

Most payments are made automatically between November and December so you should receive your payment by Christmas.

Cold Weather Payments

Residents in receipt of certain benefits may be eligible for Cold Weather Payments. You’ll get a payment of £25 for each 7 day period of very cold weather between the 1st November and 31st March. You don’t need to apply. If you’re eligible to get a Cold Weather Payment, you will be paid automatically. More information can be found at www.gov.uk/cold-weather-payment

Warm Home Discount

The Warm Homes Discount is a scheme that will provide a £140 rebate on electricity bills in winter. The money isn’t paid to you - it’s a one-off discount on your electricity bill, usually between October and March. Older customers on low incomes in receipt of Pension Credit should receive the discount automatically. The energy companies also have discretion about which other vulnerable customers receive this discount. They all have slightly different criteria, so a customer may have to register for the discount with their energy supplier. For more information visit www.direct.gov.uk or phone your energy company directly and ask them about the Warm Homes Discount.

Pension Credit

Older people on lower incomes may also be entitles to Pension Credit and maybe don't even realise. This tops up other income to at least £155.60 for individuals or £237.55 for couples. These amounts may be higher if you are severely disabled, have caring responsibilities or certain housing costs.

Approximately two million people claim pension credit and many more may be eligible. To find out if you are, just call 0800 991 234 or try the Age UK benefits calculator! Don't struggle in silence - claim what is available to you and make sure you stay warm this winter.

To find out more about any of these benefits, you can speak to any of our advisers, who can also do a full benefits check if required. Call 01422 252 040 or 01484 535 994.