Pension credit deadline: apply by 21st December to be eligible for Winter Fuel Payment

A change to this year’s Winter Fuel Payment means that to get the tax-free lump sum worth up to £300, you must be receiving Pension Credit.

If you’re already receiving Pension Credit, you don’t need to do anything. The Winter Fuel Payment will be paid into your bank in November or December.

I don’t receive pension credit – what do I need to do?

You should check if you are eligible for Pension Credit. If you were eligible for Pension Credit and other means tested benefits during the week of 16-22nd September and were born on or before 22nd September 1958, you could still qualify for the Winter Fuel Payment. 

Check Pension Credit eligibility and apply here

As Pension Credit can be backdated up to three months, the last date to make a claim and still receive the Winter Fuel Payment if it’s successful is 21st December 2024.

I have a question – who can I contact?

If you’re struggling to apply or you have a question about the application process, you can call our hub on 0300 123 2100. 

Help us to spread the word!

If you know someone who may be eligible for Pension Credit and the Winter Fuel Payment, let them know how and when to apply.