Winter is a challenging time for many pensioners, especially with the recent changes to the Winter Fuel Payment. In an effort to help pensioners navigate these changes and ensure they receive the support they are entitled to, Brian Cox has joined a campaign urging pensioners to check if they are eligible for pension credits.
The Winter Fuel Payment will no longer be universal and will now only apply to some pensioners. This means that the benefit will be means-tested and can only be claimed by pensioners who are claiming certain other benefits, such as pension credits. The deadline to apply for pension credits is December 21, so it is important for eligible pensioners to act quickly.
Unfortunately, many pensioners are not aware of their eligibility for pension credits. Independent Age estimates that around 70,000 households in Scotland are entitled to pension credit but do not claim it. Fran McSweeney, head of services at Independent Age, emphasizes the importance of checking eligibility, as pension credits can open the door to other entitlements such as help with rent and council tax.
Katherine Crawford, chief executive of Age Scotland, highlights the real-life impact of taking away the Winter Fuel Payment from low and modest income pensioners. With the loss of this benefit, many pensioners may be forced to choose between heating their homes and putting food on the table, which can have serious health consequences. Hypothermia is entirely preventable, yet many older people are at risk of developing chronic health problems due to living in cold houses.
To qualify for pension credit, you must live in the UK, reach state pension age, and meet other specific criteria depending on whether you are an individual or part of a couple. It is estimated that over three million households qualify for pension credit, but around 880,000 do not claim it. By raising awareness about pension credits and encouraging eligible pensioners to apply, we can ensure that everyone receives the support they need to stay warm and healthy during the winter months.
If you are worried about paying your energy bills or if you think you may be eligible for pension credit, consider reaching out to organizations like Age Scotland for assistance. By taking advantage of the support available, you can maximize your winter fuel payment and ensure a more comfortable and secure winter season.
