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The Winter Fuel Allowance for pensioners is now only available to those in receipt of Pension Credit. If you are unsure whether you qualify for Pension Credit or not, check your eligibility before the deadline of 21 December 2024. A successful award of Pension Credit will mean you qualify for this year’s Winter Fuel Allowance as well.

There are three ways to check your eligibility:

• attend the Winter Warmer Event at K2 on Thursday 17 October 2024 11am to 3.30pm, where staff will be able to check your eligibility online and help you to submit an application. Light refreshments will be provided and there is no need to book in advance. Free community transport to K2 is available- reserve your seat on 01293 544 985
• drop in to the Town Hall between 9.30am and 3pm on a Tuesday or Wednesday during October and November and staff will be able to check your eligibility online and help you to submit an application

You will need:

• your National insurance number
• the last three months of bank statements
• your most recent savings account statement

The eligibility check takes 10 minutes. You will be asked straightforward questions, for example the amount of state pension you receive, whether you work, are you receiving Carers Allowance and your date of birth.

The average Pension Credit award is £3,900 a year. However, being awarded just £1 pension credit can increase the amount of housing benefit you receive, increase your discount on Council Tax and make you eligible for the Winter Fuel Allowance. If you are over 75 years old, you will also get a free TV licence and, if you get guarantee pension credit, you will also be entitled to the Warm Home Discount. 

We will be writing to Â鶹´«Ã½ Homes tenants to remind them to check their eligibility before the deadline. We’ll also be running a poster and advertising campaign to remind all Â鶹´«Ã½ residents of pension age to check their eligibility.