UK government changes winter fuel payment eligibility rules for pensioners

The UK government has changed how it pays the Winter Fuel Payment to pensioners. Most eligible people will receive the money automatically, but some must apply themselves.

To qualify, pensioners must have been born on or before 27 June 1960 and live in England, Wales, or Northern Ireland. Payments arrive in November or December and range from £100 to £300. People over 80 receive the highest amount.

Automatic payments go to those who already claim benefits such as State Pension or Pension Credit. However, two groups must apply manually: people who have never received the payment before, and those who delayed their State Pension since their last payment.