New update on calls for Winter Fuel Payments to be given to all pensioners

The UK Government has rejected proposals in an online petition calling for Winter Fuel Payments to be issued to all State Pensioners. An estimated 10 million older people will miss out on the annual heating bill help this winter following the eligibility rule change announced by Chancellor Rachel Reeves in the summer.

However, despite fierce opposition to the plans and more than 47,700 people signing the e-petition, the Labour Government is standing by its decision to implement the policy change to help plug a ‘£22billion black hole’ left by the Conservatives. In a written response to the petition, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) said: “The Government has no plans to reverse the means testing of the Winter Fuel Payment but is focusing on increasing Pension Credit take-up to ensure all eligible pensioners continue to receive support.”

Petition creator Michael Brian Anderson argues that the eligibility rule change to Winter Fuel Payments could put the NHS under “more pressure” and grimly warns that “pensioners could die if MPs do not act”.

The petition states: “We want the Government to restore the Winter Fuel Payment to how it was paid last winter immediately. We are concerned that pensioners could die if MPs do not act, and that the NHS could be under more pressure.

“It has been reported that a Labour party analysis published in 2017 said plans to cut the fuel allowance for 10 million pensioners could increase excess deaths by almost 4,000 that winter.”

The DWP responded: “Given the substantial fiscal pressures this year and next, the Government has had to make difficult decisions to bring the public finances under control. This includes the decision to means-test the Winter Fuel Payment, so it is better targeted to low-income pensioners who need it.

“To ensure Winter Fuel Payments are received by those on the lowest incomes the Government is determined to do everything it can to maximise take-up of Pension Credit which provides a safety net for pensioners on the lowest incomes and opens the door to other benefits including the Winter Fuel Payment.”

DWP also explained how it has written to around 12m pensioners regarding the change to eligibility for the Winter Fuel Payment, informing them of the qualifying benefits and encouraging them to check if they may be eligible for Pension Credit and how to make a claim.

DWP added that the UK Government has directly contacted around 120,000 pensioners currently receiving Housing Benefit who may be eligible for, but not currently claiming, Pension Credit.

They said: “We are inviting these pensioners to claim Pension Credit ahead of 21st December so that, thanks to the Pension Credit backdating rules, they may also be entitled to this year’s Winter Fuel Payment.

“Not only will those who are eligible retain Winter Fuel Payment entitlement, they will receive an additional £3,900 a year on average through their new Pension Credit award, which provides a passport to other help such as assistance with housing costs, energy bills and a free TV licence for those over 75.”

The official response also outlined other financial support available to older people this winter, which you can read online here.

At 100,000 signatures, the petition would be considered by the Petitions Committee for debate in Parliament. You can view it online at the petitions-parliament website here.

How to quickly check eligibility for Pension Credit

New claims for Pension Credit made before December 21, 2024, which later turn out to be successful will also be entitled to a backdated Winter Fuel Payment. An award of just £1 per week is enough to unlock additional financial support.

Older people, or friends and family, can quickly check their eligibility and get an estimate of what they may receive by using the online Pension Credit calculator on GOV.UK here.

Alternatively, pensioners can contact the Pension Credit helpline directly to make a claim on 0800 99 1234 - lines are open 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday.

Expert help and advice is also available from:

• Independent Age
• Income Max
• Citizens Advice
• Age UK

More details about claiming Pension Credit can be fond on GOV.UK here.