If you find it tricky to work out who qualifies for which benefits and entitlements, you’re far from alone.
It’s a complex system at the best of times – and when the Government brings in changes, it can take a while for the implications of new rules to become completely clear.
That’s why we’ve highlighted some recent benefits updates that could impact older people – including the new Winter Fuel Payment system – as well as the different ways Age UK can support older people to claim the money they’re entitled to.
What’s the latest on the Winter Fuel Payment?
In 2024, the new Government changed the Winter Fuel Payment rules so that only people receiving Pension Credit or another means-tested benefit would qualify for it. The decision was met with widespread criticism, and impacted millions of older people who struggled to stay warm in their own homes over the winter.
This year, the Winter Fuel Payment was back in the spotlight. Following continued pressure from campaigners – including Age UK – the Government changed the rules again.
As it currently stands, all households in England and Wales that include someone over State Pension age will automatically receive a Winter Fuel Payment of £200 or £300 this winter.
It’s important to note that if someone’s taxable annual income is over £35,000, their payment will be recovered by HMRC through the tax system.
Find out more about the Winter Fuel Payment
So, is it still worth getting Pension Credit?
Even though older people no longer need to get Pension Credit to unlock the Winter Fuel Payment, it’s still well worth claiming.
Pension Credit is a means-tested benefit for people over State Pension age who have a low income. It's separate from the State Pension, and even if someone is only entitled to a small amount of Pension Credit, it can unlock other benefits like Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reduction.
It can also be a passport to other entitlements, such as:
- free NHS dental treatment
- help with the cost of glasses or contact lenses
- Cold Weather Payments
- help with housing costs like service charges.
If you’re not sure whether someone’s eligible, there’s no harm in checking. It only takes 5 minutes – and it could be pleasantly surprising.
Find out more about Pension Credit
Have benefit rates changed?
Each April, the Government sets new benefit rates, and this financial year has seen increases to the State Pension, Attendance Allowance and more.
If you haven’t seen what’s new, we’ve published a handy summary of the key changes affecting older people, across pensions, wellbeing and help with costs at home.
Who can claim Bereavement Support Payment?
Recent changes have seen the Bereavement Support Payment become more inclusive.
It’s no longer the case that someone needs to have been married or in a civil partnership to claim Bereavement Support Payment when their partner dies. If they were living together and they have a child or children, then they’re entitled.
What’s happening to Universal Credit?
Universal Credit continues to replace certain ‘legacy’ benefits: income-based Jobseekers Allowance (JSA), income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), Income Support and Housing Benefit.
People claiming these legacy benefits will be contacted by the Department for Work and Pensions and invited to claim Universal Credit instead – this process is known as ‘managed migration’ and it’s expected to wrap up by the end of 2025.
How can Age UK help?
It can be hard to know where to start when it comes to the benefit system, but we’re committed to helping older people access the money they’re entitled to. Here are some of the ways we can offer advice, information and support:
Online benefits calculator: Get a quick initial steer on what might be available by using our online benefits calculator – it’s free, simple and anonymous.
Dedicated benefits team: Our Advice Line is open between 8am-7pm every day of the year to answer questions about everything from money and care to health and housing. Our dedicated benefits team can help someone figure out what they could be entitled to – call 0800 678 1602 to ask about an appointment.
Trusted advice: We have online information about the various benefits and entitlements available. We also have free print guides someone can read or give to friends and family – call the Advice Line to place an order.
Local Age UKs: Most local Age UKs offer an information and advice service, whether that’s by telephone, by email or in person. Get in touch with a local Age UK to find out how they can help.
