Thousands of state pensioners to receive £233 in aid despite Winter Fuel Payment cut

Despite the loss of access to the Winter Fuel Payment, thousands of state pensioners are set to receive at least £233 in financial support this winter, thanks to a combination of other benefits aimed at helping with energy costs. The Winter Fuel Payment has been a lifeline for many pensioners in past years, but due to changes in the qualification criteria, millions will find themselves ineligible for it this year.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced that the payment, which can amount to up to £300 a year to put towards heating, will only be available to people who receive certain means-tested benefits, such as Pension Credit. However, those who no longer qualify for this support may still be entitled to a range of other payments that could help makeup the difference.

Here are three key benefits that, when combined, can total up to £233.

The Warm Home Discount £150.

The Warm Home Discount provides a one-off £150 rebate on households' electricity bills. Eligible pensioners can automatically receive this payment if they're receiving the Guarantee Credit portion of Pension Credit.

READ MORE: Keir Starmer's personal rating slides to lowest ever level as Labour conference kicks off

READ MORE: Martin Lewis explains how some Brits can reap rewards of LISA with just £1

They may also be eligible for the support if they receive the Savings Credit portion of Pension Credit, Universal Credit or Housing Benefit.

Most qualifying households can anticipate a letter from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) between November and January, confirming their eligibility. The Express reports that the payment is then made directly to the household's energy provider between November and March.

Winter Heating Payment - £58.

The Winter Heating Payment, worth £58.75 this year, is available to individuals in Scotland who are eligible for certain benefits such as Pension Credit and Universal Credit. It will be distributed in a single instalment between December and February 2025.

Cold Weather Payment - £25 (at least).

In addition, pensioners may be entitled to the Cold Weather Payment, which provides £25 for each seven-day period when the temperature drops below zero. These payments are triggered by cold weather conditions and are automatically sent to those who qualify for Pension Credit or other eligible benefits.

This year, the scheme will run from November 1, 2024, until March 31, 2025.