UK state pensioners born before this year could see £100 boost in Winter Fuel Payments

It's widely known that state pensioners will lose their £300 Winter Fuel Payment this winter if they no longer claim a qualifying benefit, following the government's decision to make the payment means-tested rather than universal.

But many may not be aware that even if you do qualify for the the payment this year, the exact amount you receive will vary based on your birth year and other circumstances. Previously, it 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 regulations. Those who are of state pension age but under 80, meaning born on or before September 22, 1958, and qualify, will receive a £200 payment. Meanwhile, those aged over 80 - born September 23, 1944 or earlier - will receive £300. For our free daily briefing on the biggest issues facing the nation, sign up to the Wales Matters newsletter here.

The sum you receive is determined by your birth date and your circumstances between 16 and 22 September 2024, known as the 'qualifying week'. If you missed this period, you can backdate pension credit claims until December, so it's still accessible now, reports the Express. This implies that if you're currently over 80 and qualify, your Winter Fuel Payment will increase from £200 to £300.

Most qualifying individuals will receive a letter detailing how much they'll get and into which bank account it will be paid - typically the same one used for your Pension Credit or other benefits.

Providing guidance, Age UK said: "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. 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 don't receive your payment." Join our WhatsApp news community here for the latest breaking news. You will receive updates from us daily.