RISING energy bills across the UK have added to the ongoing cost of living crisis leaving many households battling financial worries as the winter months approach.

In a bid to help Brits struggling the government has offered support to some households via the £400 fuel discount, but many will be eligible for further help.

Around 12 million people will receive financial support in the form of the Winter Fuel Payment which could be worth up to £900 for those eligible as part of the government’s £37 billion support package.

The winter Fuel Payment will be boosted this year with the DWP combining it with the Pensioner Cost of Living payment worth between £150 and £300.

Not everyone will be eligible for the full amount while some people will not be eligible at all. Here is everything you need to know.  

How you can reduce your energy bills

How much is the Winter Fuel Payment worth?

Those eligible could receive between £250 and £600 to help you pay heating bills.

For 2022 and 2023 the amount includes a ‘Pensioner Cost of Living Payment’ worth between £150 and £300, meaning the maximum payment could be £900 over the next two winters in addition to any Cost of Living Payment you get with any benefit or tax credits.

What you receive will depend on your personal circumstances.

Who is eligible for the Winter Fuel Payment?

The Department for Work and Pensions say people are automatically eligible for the Winter Fuel Payment if you meet one of the following criteria:

  • You were born on or before September 25, 1956
  • You live in the UK for at least one day during the qualifying week of September 19 to 25, 2022

If you did not live in the UK during the qualifying week, you might still get the payment if both the following apply:

  • You live in Switzerland or a European Economic Area (EEA) country
  • You have a genuine and sufficient link to the UK - such as having lived or work in the UK, or have family in the UK.

When will it be paid?

The Government website states that most payments will be made automatically in November or December and you should get a letter in the post telling you how much you will receive.

If you have not received the payment by 13 January 2023 then you should contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre.

For further information visit the government website.