What should I know about the winter fuel payment?

During winter, our household energy bills often rise. Thankfully, the winter fuel payment can help to make paying for heating more affordable for older people. Read on to find out more about this payment.

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What is the winter fuel payment?

The winter fuel payment is an annual tax-free allowance that everyone over retirement age in the UK is entitled to. This helps people pay for their winter heating costs. The payments are mostly made between November and December.

The amount you can receive depends on your age. Currently, for those under 80, it is £200 and for those over 80, it is £300. If you live with others who also qualify, the amount you will receive will be less.

Are you eligible to claim?

Those born before 5th August 1953 are eligible for the winter fuel payment. The winter fuel payment will be paid automatically if you are eligible and you receive a state pension or benefits. You will need to make a claim if you don’t automatically qualify. To start claiming, you can call the helpline on 0345 915 1515.

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In addition to claiming winter fuel payments, there are other things you can do to reduce heating bills. One of these is making sure your boiler is in good working order. A faulty or inefficient boiler means your home will be harder to heat and bills will be higher.

Checking your boiler

It is easy to find an expert to perform a boiler repair in Gloucester or another city. You can find experts online who will come and check your boiler for the winter months. Whether you are looking for Gloucester boiler repair services or repair services in another city, it is an easy task to find qualified professionals to assess and repair your old boiler.

Other ways to ensure your heating bills are affordable include using a timer switch on your heating, using draught excluders and hanging thick, heavy curtains to keep the heat in around the windows. There are many other tips online to help you find ways to cut heating costs, such as these suggestions from the Guardian Money team.

Remember to claim your winter fuel allowance if you don’t automatically qualify, as this can make a huge difference and can ensure you have your home heated to a comfortable temperature throughout winter.

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