Cold weather prompts pensioners to seek benefits advice

The recent cold snap led to a surge in the number of pensioners seeking advice on state benefits.

Age UK revealed that in the first full week of January, the number of calls to its advice line went up by 50%, and by 60% the week after.

This coincided with the UK being hit by freezing conditions, with temperatures dropping to as low as -16C in some areas.

With the winter fuel payment now being means tested rather than a universal benefit, lots of pensioners have been worried about how to keep warm over winter, and the cold snap has prompted many to ask for help.

Speaking to BBC News, an Age UK spokesperson said: “The cold weather is one of the biggest topics callers are worried about at the moment.

"Even though the date to claim pension credit by to be awarded the winter fuel payment this year has now passed, we are still seeing enquiries for benefit checks due to the increased worry of meeting the cost of living."

Who’s eligible for winter fuel payments?

To qualify for the winter fuel payment, you need to be born before 23 September 1958 and be in receipt of either pension credit or one of the following means-tested benefits:

• universal credit
• income-related employment and support allowance
• income-based jobseeker's allowance
• income support
• child tax credit
• working tax credit

We’re here to help

Following the news that winter fuel payment would be means tested, we joined a range of charities and organisations in signing an open letter asking the government to change its policy.

Sadly, we were unsuccessful, but we’re still committed to making sure you get every penny you’re entitled to so you can stay warm in the winter months.

Try our free benefits calculator to find out if you’re getting all the benefits you’re eligible for.

Or give us a call and we’ll have a look for you.