The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has released key dates and eligibility criteria for the Winter Fuel Payment 2024. The support is now limited to those receiving Pension Credit, Income Support, income-based Jobseeker's Allowance, income-related Employment and Support Allowance, or Universal Credit.
The qualifying week for this winter's payment is from September 16 to 22, 2024. To be eligible, you must have reached state pension age (currently 66) during that period. Those turning 66 on or after September 23 will have to wait until next year.
You will not qualify if you have been in hospital receiving free treatment for over a year, require permission to enter the UK with a condition not to claim public funds, or were in prison during the qualifying week. Care home residents may receive the payment if their stay is less than 13 weeks, including the qualifying week.
Payment amounts vary by age and living situation. Those living alone born between September 23, 1944 and September 22, 1958 receive £200; those born before September 23, 1944 receive £300. For couples, one partner receives £200 or £300 depending on age. Care home residents get £100 or £150 based on birth date.
Eligible individuals will receive a letter in October or November detailing their payment, which will be deposited into the account where their benefits are paid.
