🏠💡 Winter Woes: Who’s Missing Out on Fuel Payments? 💡🏠
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has rolled out new eligibility criteria for the winter fuel payment, affecting many as the cold creeps in. While this lifeline brings between £200 and £300 to eligible pensioners over 65, it’s not available to everyone.
Sadly, if you fall into these categories, the extra support won’t be heading your way:
🔸 Those residing outside England and Wales.
🔸 Individuals in hospital for the entire week of 15-21 September 2025, also last year.
🔸 Anyone needing permission to enter the UK with a ‘no recourse to public funds’ status.
🔸 If you were in prison the whole week of 15-21 September 2025.
🔸 Living in a care home while receiving certain benefits like Universal Credit or Pension Credit.
Plus, high earners (over £35,000) might face some tax adjustments on any payment received.
With household energy debt at an alarming eight-year peak, totalling £4 billion, many of us are feeling the pinch. The average household debt has climbed from £173 to £223, leaving 3.5 million households in arrears.
Worries about heating bills are making 40% of us bundle up at home without turning up the heat, and one in ten are switching to prepayment meters to deal with debt.
Energy companies urge those struggling to chat with them early for possible support. And remember, every little bit of energy saved counts—so layer up, keep an eye on usage, and stay warm in savvy ways!
📝 Remember to stay informed about your eligibility and reach out for advice if you’re unsure about your payments.
Stay cosy, everyone! 💬💪
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