The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has provided clarity on the exact date individuals should expect their Winter Fuel Payment, following a rule change by the new government. While most people receive payment in November or December, the DWP has indicated that for some, it may take slightly longer.
If you haven’t received your letter or payment by January 29, you’re advised to contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre, as per the guidance on the DWP website. The centre can be contacted if you’re eligible for a Winter Fuel Payment and need to report a change of circumstances, update your address or personal details, wish to cancel future payments or want to return a payment.
It’s important to report any changes in circumstances as soon as possible – such as if you stop receiving a benefit, move house or move into a care home. These factors can affect how much Winter Fuel Payment you receive.
If you cancel your payments, you can reverse this decision at any time. When contacting the payment centre, you’ll need to provide your personal details such as your name, your address, your date of birth and your National Insurance number.
You can either call the helpline or send a letter by post. If you’re in the UK, call 0800 731 0160 or contact Relay UK on 18001 then 0800 731 0160, reports Wales Online.
If you neglected to report a change immediately, provided incorrect information or were overpaid by mistake, you may be required to repay the money. For those not living in the UK, eligibility for the Winter Fuel Payment is only applicable if you were born before September 23, 1958, receive the UK State Pension, have a genuine and sufficient link to the UK – this could include having lived or worked in the UK, and having family in the UK, the UK is responsible for paying your benefits and you relocated to an eligible country before December 31, 2020 and are covered by the Withdrawal Agreement.
However, if you are a British or Irish national residing in Ireland, there’s no need to have moved by December 31, 2020, but all other eligibility rules must be met.