Millions of people may be sent a £200 payment from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) this month. The cash should land in bank accounts automatically, and most eligible people should have already received theirs – in November or December.
However if you’re yet to receive the money, you should contact Winter Fuel Payment Centre after January 29, DWP has said. Pensioners who receive a means-tested benefit such as Pension Credit, Tax Credits (an annual award of at least £26) or Universal Credit (mixed couples only), during any day of the qualifying week (September 16-22, 2024), are eligible for a Winter Fuel Payment.
The financial support is worth £200 for most pensioners, although those aged over 80 will get £300, while those aged over 80 and residing in care homes will receive £150 each. Last winter, more than 11 million Winter Fuel Payments were distributed.
This number will be significantly less this year, due to eligibility changes. Previously, all pensioners received the Winter Fuel Payment but on July 29, 2024, the government said the scheme would only be made only be available to people who are in receipt of Pension Credit or certain other means-tested benefits.
You can contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre through post or via phone. Before doing so, expect them to ask for personal details including your name, address, date of birth, and National Insurance Number.
If you’re in the UK you can dial 0800 731 0160 while if you’re outside the UK you can dial +44 (0)191 218 7777. Lines are generally open Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm. You can also send a letter to the Winter Fuel Payment Centre at the following address:
Winter Fuel Payment Centre Mail Handling Site A Wolverhampton WV98 1ZU