Millions of pensioners will begin receiving extra help on their energy bills this winter in the form of up to £600.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) confirmed the Winter Fuel Payments will begin to be rolled out automatically today, with the majority of recipients getting their money by January 13, 2023. The government is boosting the payments by an additional £300 this year due to surging energy bill costs which they blame on Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
According to the DWP, over 11.6 million pensioners in England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland will begin receiving the payments this year as part of a £4.5 billion support package to help tackle the energy crisis in the UK.
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Work and Pensions Secretary Mel Stride said: "We want to do everything we can to support pensioners who are often the most exposed to higher costs. That’s why we’re providing all pensioner households with an additional £300 on top of their Winter Fuel Payments to heat their homes and stay warm this winter.
“This extra payment is just one part of the wider support package we’re delivering to help with rising bills, including the biggest State Pension increase in history. Our support doesn’t stop here. As we deal with the impact of Putin’s illegal war in Ukraine and the aftermath of the pandemic, we will continue to stand by the most vulnerable, with further cost of living payments coming next year.”
Those expecting to receive the payment will see it appear in their bank statements with the reference starting with the customer's national insurance number followed by 'DWP WFP' (if you're in Great Britain) or 'DFC WFP' (If you;re in Northern Ireland'.
While most people will receive the Winter Fuel Payments automatically, some may need to make a claim to the DWP.
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