Care and support

Winter fuel payment

What is it?

This is a one off payment made each year to help with the cost of winter fuel bills. Most people aged 60 years and over can get a winter fuel payment. There is an extra amount if you or your partner is aged 80 or over. The payment is made between November and January. It is paid to households where someone is aged 60 or over in the qualifying week. For 2008-09 this is the week beginning Monday 15th September 2008. Any household with someone aged 80 or over on any day in the qualifying week should also get the extra payment.

How much is paid?

For the winter 2008/9 the usual amount is £250 per household if you or your partner are aged 60 or over and £400 per household where you or your partner are aged 80 or over. Some people living in care homes will receive 50% of the winter fuel payment.

How do I claim the winter fuel payment?

If you are getting a state retirement pension or another social security benefit you should automatically receive any payment you are entitled to without having to make a claim. If you do not get any of the above payments and think you or someone in your household is eligible you must claim before 31/3/09 For more information about claims and claiming telephone the Winter Fuel Payments Helpline: 08459 151515. (Textphone 08456 015613)

You can also claim winter fuel payments for the following past winters: 1997/98, 1998/99 & 1999/2000 if you should have received a payment but did not.

For more information about claims and claiming telephone the Winter Fuel Payments Helpline: 08459 151515. (Textphone 08456 015613) or visit: www.thepensionservice.gov.uk/winterfuel

Cold weather payment

What is it?

This is a payment for a period of very cold weather. If you qualify you can get it in addition to a winter fuel payment.

Who can claim?

You will get a cold weather payment automatically if you (or your partner) are getting pension credit and you are aged 60 or over. You get a payment for each week when the average temperature in your area is forecast or recorded as being at or below 0oC for 7 consecutive days.

How much is paid?

The payment is £8.50 for each week of cold weather.