Exact date millions of people should get £300 winter fuel payment - and what to do if you don't

The payment is now restricted to those on means-tested benefits

Millions of pensioners are being urged to keep an eye on the date as the pay-out for this year's winter fuel payment is announced. For the first time, the benefit, which can be worth up to £300, will only be available to those claiming certain support.

It will no longer be a universal allowance, so those in need of the top-up may need to check their eligibility. Previously, anyone over the State Pension age could receive the pay-out.

Most households will not need to qualify and will receive a letter detailing the amount they will receive and the bank account into which the payment will be made. The money is automatically paid to those who qualify, and those who do not receive a letter have been given a deadline to apply for the benefit.

Payments are £200 for eligible households and £300 for households where one or more resident is aged over 80. If the money has not been paid into your account by January 29, 2025, then you should contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre.

The deadline for claiming money for winter 2024 to 2025 is set for March 31, 2025. Payments must be processed by this date for those who qualify, with most once again receiving the money directly into their bank accounts, according to The Sun, reports the Mirror.

Most pensioners will receive the money without needing to take any additional actions, as long as they are claiming certain benefits such as Pension Credit, Income Support or Universal Credit.

If you haven't received your Winter Fuel Payment benefit by January 29, it's crucial to take action quickly. You should contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre on 0800 731 0160 to make a claim.

The payment is now limited to those receiving means-tested benefits. Pensioners who receive any of the following benefits are eligible for the Winter Fuel Payment allowance.

It's estimated that over 800,000 pensioners could be missing out on this benefit. Pension Credit can boost your weekly income to £218.15 if you're single or £332.95 for couples.

If you believe you qualify for Pension Credit, it's vital to start the claim process as soon as possible. Claims can be backdated up to three months, with the final date to claim for the 2024-2025 Winter Fuel Payment being December 21, 2024.