Pension credit applications soar ahead of winter fuel payment deadline

Applications for pension credit have soared since the government axed the winter fuel payment for all but the poorest pensioners.

The unpopular decision to withdraw the payment, previously offered to everyone aged 66 and over, was made in July to cover a £22bn ‘black ‘hole in public spending that Labour says it inherited from the last Conservative government. The move has seen around 10m pensioners lose what’s been a vital form of support for many.

Now, only those receiving pension credit or other means-tested benefits will receive the £200 payment (£300 if you’re over 80).

The trade union Unite has taken legal action against the government, claiming they haven’t considered the risks to the health and wellbeing of vulnerable people.

Soaring applications ahead of winter

Since the  announcement was made in the summer, 150,000 people have applied for pension credit.

But only 42,500 – about 28% – of these applications have been successful so far, with some rejected and others waiting for a decision.

We don’t know why so many applications have been rejected, but reasons could include:

• not meeting the eligibility criteria
• not answering the 24-page, 223-question form properly

Pensions minister Emma Reynolds is urging people to check their eligibility before the December deadline.

"Check if you are eligible for pension credit and if you are then apply, as it unlocks a range of benefits including the winter fuel payment,” she said.

Critics have pointed out delays, with the average wait time for a decision being 10 weeks.

Don’t miss out

It’s estimated that about 880,000 pensioners haven’t put in a claim despite qualifying for the benefit.

You can still get the winter fuel payment if you submit a pension credit claim before 21 December, providing you backdate your claim to the qualifying week (16-22 September 2024).

If you’re not sure if you qualify for pension credit, give us a ring and we’ll check for you.

We can also help you find out if you're receiving all the benefits you're entitled to, or you can use our free benefits calculator to see if you might be eligible for additional support.