News
November 2005
Winter Fuel and Age Related Payments - they are on the way!
During November and December, the Government is making Winter Fuel Payments and Age-Related Payments to help with Council Tax bills and other living expenses.
They will be made to people who normally live in Great Britain or Northern Ireland during the qualifying week of 19-25 September 2005.
Winter Fuel Payments
If you were aged 60 or over on or before 25 September 2005, you could get a payment of up to £200 from the Government to help with your winter heating costs. If you were aged 80 or over, you could get up to £300.
Age-Related Payments
If you were aged 65 or over on or before 25 September 2005 and not in receipt of the guarantee credit element of Pension Credit, you could be eligible for a payment of £200 to help with Council Tax bills. If you were aged 70 or over on or before 25 September 2005 and in receipt of the guarantee credit element of Pension Credit, you could be eligible for a payment of £50 to help with living expenses.
How much you are eligible for depends on your age and circumstances during the qualifying week. Most people who are eligible for a Winter Fuel Payment and/or an Age-Related Payment should receive them automatically. Please note that Age-Related Payments will be paid with the Winter Fuel Payments.
If you do not receive a payment by Christmas but think you qualify, you should call the office that normally pays your benefit. Some people may need to claim their payments. If you think you may need to make a claim then please call the helpline on 08459 15 15 15.
All claims for the Winter Fuel and Age-Related Payments must be received by 30 March 2006.