The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed details of winter bonus payments, with some pensioners set to receive an extra £100 in their bank accounts later this year. However, not all over-65s will qualify for the additional cash.
Winter Fuel Payment Amounts
Winter Fuel Payments are worth either £200 or £300, depending on the age of the pensioner. People aged under 80 receive £200, while those aged 80 and over get £300. The extra £100 for older pensioners is in recognition that they tend to spend more time at home and are likely to need heating for longer periods.
Income Threshold Changes
While most retirees receive Winter Fuel Payments, recent rule changes have linked the allowance to income. An income threshold of £35,000 has been introduced, meaning anyone earning above this amount no longer qualifies. Under a potentially confusing system, these individuals initially receive the payments before the money is reclaimed in monthly instalments by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC).
The majority of pensioners receive the winter allowance each November. The extra cash is designed to help older people keep their homes warm during the coldest months.
