How Winter Fuel Payments are changing in England & Wales

How Winter Fuel Payments are changing in England and Wales

Starting this winter (2024/25), if you live in England or Wales, you'll only be able to get a Winter Fuel Payment if you're born on or before 22 September 1958 AND receiving one of the following benefits: Pension Credit, Universal Credit, Income Support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance or income-related Employment and Support Allowance.

The amount you can get won't change. This means if you are eligible, you'll still get up to £300.

For more information about the Winter Fuel Payments, see the Government Winter Fuel Payment information or Age UK guide: Winter Fuel Payments

Winter Fuel Payments Helpline

The payment should go to the main claimant of the benefit automatically.

If you are eligible, you should receive your payment between mid-November and Christmas. Call the Winter Fuel Payment helpline on 0800 731 0160 if you have any enquiries or you do not receive your payment.

Struggling to pay your household bills?

There is help available for energy costs including the Warm Home Discount and Cold Weather Payment that you might be entitled to, as well as potential discounts from your energy suppliers.

For more information, see the Age UK guide: Government help for energy bills. 

Some circumstances might mean that you are eligible for a discount on your Council Tax.

If you are struggling to pay your household bills, the following guide from Money Saving Expert gives useful practical guidance about where to start: What to do if you are struggling to pay your energy bills. 

For help meeting energy costs

If you need additional help, or are worried about your bills, please call the Age UK Islington helpline on 020 7281 6018 / gethelp@ageukislington.org.uk.

You can also contact SHINE energy service if you are over 60 for advice on saving energy and grants available for heating and insulation, support with bills and energy debt. They also provide an 'Energy Doctor in the Home' home visiting service. 

To check you're receiving the right benefits

Use the Age UK benefits calculator to help you find out which benefits you could be entitled to. It's free and simple to use and the details you provide are kept anonymous.

Contact Islington Council's Income Maximisation team (IMAX) - they can help and advise you on getting the most money possible in your circumstances. They provide advice and support with benefits and tax credits to ensure you get the correct money. Call 020 7527 8600 or email claimit@islington.gov.uk.

Or contact Citizens Advice Bureau.

Other energy saving measures

Islington Council is running some DIY Energy Saving Workshops to show how to install draught excluders, improve radiator efficiency, and more. 

Connected for Warmth offers fully-funded cavity wall insulation and loft insulation to households throughout Britain, which can help reduce energy use and keep homes warmer for less. Find out more and if you're eligible.