Winter Fuel Payments

April 30th, 2008

The Government will again be making Winter Fuel Payments to most people aged 60 or over for winter 2008/09.

There will be an additional payment for winter 2008/09 of £50 for households with someone aged 60-79 and £100 for households with someone aged 80 or over. This will be paid alongside the Winter Fuel Payment.

As a result of pensions reform the minimum age at which both men and women will be able to receive a Winter Fuel Payment will rise incrementally to 65 between 2010 and 2020. There is a working assumption that it will rise again to 68 with the increase in State Pension age. Precise details of how the Winter Fuel Payment qualifying age will increase are yet to be finalised.

You can call the Winter Fuel Helpline, or visit the website, if you need:

• more information about Winter Fuel Payments
• to tell them about a change in your circumstances
• to get a claim form for Winter Fuel Payments (for either this winter or past winters). You can also download a claim form from their website

The Winter Fuel Payment Helpline is 08459 15 15 15 (0845 601 5613 for textphone users). Lines are open from 8.30am to 4.30pm, Monday to Friday. Charges are the same as for local calls. They may monitor your call to check the quality of service you receive.

Remember, if you are in receipt of a State Pension or another social security benefit other than Housing Benefit, Council Tax Benefit or Child Benefit you should first contact the office that normally deals with you first.

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