The Sun launches interactive tool to check benefits – see if you get winter fuel payments or pension credit this winter --[Reported by Umva mag]

TODAY, The Sun launches a free tool to help you check whether you will get the Winter Fuel Payment this year. 

The free benefits checker is in partnership with poverty charity Turn2Us. It quickly tells you if you’re missing out on any cash.
If you are unable to access the internet you could ask a friend or relative to help you do the check. 

We were flooded with calls and emails earlier this week, with many readers asking whether they were entitled to pension credit or other benefits.

In her July statement, Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced that this winter only households in England and Wales that receive Pension Credit or certain means tested benefits will be entitled to the Winter Fuel payment. 

Previously it was available to everyone aged over 66.

New government figures estimate that 770,000 pensioners are at risk of missing out this winter. 

The benefit, which is worth up to £300, unlocks a host of other awards including a free TV licence and cheaper water bills worth up to £3,900. 

Michael Clarke, from Turn2us: “It’s crucial that people are supported by friends and family to check they are getting all the support available to them. 

“In just 10 minutes, the Turn2us Benefits Calculator will tell people if they are eligible.”

You will need some personal information to hand about your current income, including state and private pensions, and any benefits you currently receive. 

If you are eligible to apply for Pension Credit you can call the DWP helpline on: 0800 99 1234

When you claim you will need your national insurance number and details of any savings and investments, plus information on housing costs such as mortgage interest, service charges or ground rent. 

You must lodge a claim by December 21 to get the Winter Fuel Payment this year.

FIX YOUR ENERGY BILLS?

If you’re not on a fixed tariff then it may be worth considering one. Many of the top fixed tariffs are now cheaper than the price cap and could save you money. You can compare tariffs using uSwitch.com or Moneysavingexpert.com. 

WARM HOME DISCOUNT 

The Warm Home Discount is £150 one-off payment towards electricity bills. You will usually get it automatically – but you need to apply if you’re on a low income in Scotland.
You should check with your energy supplier if you’re on a low income and think you are eligible. 

HOUSEHOLD SUPPORT FUND

You can apply to your local council for help if you’re on a low income. Search the name of your local council and ‘household support fund’ to find out details on how you can apply. Eligibility criteria and the amount you will get varies based on where you live – but some households have got up to £500.

ENERGY GRANTS

Many of the UK’s biggest energy suppliers have grants in place to help struggling customers. For example, British Gas offers grants of up to £2,000. .
Ask your supplier if there is anything they can offer
FREE INSULATION OR BOILERS 

You may be able to get free or cheap insulation to help reduce your home’s energy bills. Check here: https://www.gov.uk/apply-great-british-insulation-scheme

GET FREE DEBT HELP

THERE are several groups which can help you with your problem debts for free.

• Citizens Advice – 0800 144 8848 (England) / 0800 702 2020 (Wales)
• StepChange – 0800138 1111
• National Debtline – 0808 808 4000
• Debt Advice Foundation – 0800 043 4050

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