State pensioners born in these years given instant Winter Fuel Payment increase - how to check

This year, millions of state pensioners will lose their £300 Winter Fuel Payment, a change that has been widely reported since the government announced the benefit would become means-tested. This means that most state pensioners will no longer receive a £300 payment unless they claim a qualifying benefit.

However, many are unaware that even if they qualify for the Winter Fuel Payment this year, the exact amount they receive will vary based on their birth year and possibly other circumstances. Previously, the Winter Fuel Payment was automatically given to all state pensioners, but starting this winter, you must be claiming a qualifying benefit such as Pension Credit due to changes in government rules, reports the Express.

Those who are of state pension age but under 80, born on or before September 22, 1958, and qualify will receive a £200 payment, while those over 80 - born September 23, 1944, or earlier - will receive £300. The amount you receive is determined by your birth date and circumstances between 16 and 22 September 2024, known as the 'qualifying week'.

If you missed it, you can backdate Pension Credit claims until December, so it's still available now. Therefore, if you're over 80 and qualify, your Winter Fuel Payment will increase from £200 to £300.

Those eligible for winter assistance should expect a letter outlining the payment amount and designated bank account, which typically corresponds with where their Pension Credit or other benefits are deposited. As per Age UK: "If you or your partner claims Pension Credit, Income Support, income-based Jobseeker's Allowance or income-related Employment and Support Allowance, the payment should go to the main claimant of the benefit automatically."

"If you've never received a Winter Fuel Payment before, or if you claim Universal Credit, you might need to make a claim. And if you receive Child Tax Credit or Working Tax Credit, you must make a claim."

The expected timeline for receipt of these payments is from mid-November until Christmas.

Should any issues arise or payments not be received, Age UK advises contacting the Winter Fuel Payment helpline on 0800 731 0160.