Pensioners across Britain are being urged to take action as they have just one week to secure up to £300 in energy bill support as costs are expected to climb in the months ahead.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has established the crucial qualifying period from September 16-22 September for Winter Fuel Payments, which provide hundreds of pounds in financial assistance.
This deadline arrives as Ofgem has confirmed a two per cent increase in the energy price cap starting October, pushing typical yearly costs to £1,755 for households with average gas and electricity usage.
Personal finance analysts are sounding the alarm that the £35 annual increase compounds financial pressures for older households already struggling with heating expenses.
Are you eligible for a Winter Fuel Payment?
|GETTY
Winter Fuel Payments have been a contentious political topic in recent months following the Labour Government's attempt to make reduce the qualifying criteria for the previously universal benefit payment.
In June 2025, ministers rolled back on solely linking eligibility for the Winter Fuel Allowance to those who are in receipt of Pension Credit, a means-tested benefit for those of state pension.
Under the restored scheme, which introduces income-based restrictions, payments subject to tax clawback for those earning above £35,000 annually unless they opt out by September 15.
These modifications to the scheme will enable 7.4 million additional pensioners to receive support compared to last year, though approximately two million remain ineligible.
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Energy bills are expected to rise this winter | GETTY If the Government's planned changes to the Winter Fuel Payments had been implemented, it is estimated 10 million pensioners would have lose access to Winter Fuel Payments.
The payments, ranging up to £300 based on a claimant's age, typically arrive in bank accounts during November or December for those meeting the benefit's eligibility criteria.
Personal finance specialist Fiona Peake from Ocean Finance emphasised the importance of older households checking their eligibility for support ahead of Ofgem's energy price cap hike
Ms Peake explained: "With bills rising again in October, the timing couldn't be worse for households already under pressure.
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"For many, this extra support could mean the difference between putting the heating on or shivering through winter."
Ms Peake outlined five essential steps for safeguarding payments.
First, pensioners should verify their benefit eligibility, as "even if you think you won't qualify, it's worth a five-minute check".
She particularly highlights how Pension Credit can increase income while providing access to additional support including Housing Benefit and Cold Weather Payments.
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| PAEarly application remains crucial, as Ms Peake warned: "Too many people apply just days after the qualifying week and miss out completely. Get your claim in now so you're approved in time."
She advises maintaining accurate records with the DWP, noting that "payments can be delayed or even stopped if your details are wrong".
Pensioners should verify their bank details, address and National Insurance information immediately.
Beyond Winter Fuel Payments, automatic Cold Weather Payments activate when temperatures remain below freezing for seven days, though recipients must already receive qualifying benefits. "Sorting this now means you'll be covered all season," Ms Peake explained.