Don’t miss out on winter fuel cash - Ritchie

Social Development Minister, Margaret Ritchie MLA, today urged people aged 60 or over, who have not received a Winter Fuel Payment before, to check if they are eligible.

This is particularly relevant as this year’s qualifying week for inclusion approaches. People aged 60 or over by 27 September 2009 can qualify for £250 per household, rising to £400 for those over 80 years.

The Minister said: “Most people receive this important payment automatically if they are already getting a State Pension or other social security benefit (excluding Housing Benefit or Child Benefit). I want to make sure people know about the Winter Fuel Payment, particularly those who do not realise they are eligible perhaps because they are still working. I encourage them to contact the Winter Fuel Payment Helpline to check if they can claim.

“The Winter Fuel Payment was introduced in 1997 to help people aged 60 and over with the cost of heating. The payment has increased from £20 to its present £250 which is well above the rate of inflation. With the continued high cost of fuel, there is no doubt that some older people may have difficulty budgeting this year. This payment will make a difference and I say to them – don’t miss out.”

The Winter Fuel Payment is available to people who reach 60 by 27 September 2009. Claim forms can be obtained by ringing the Winter Fuel Payment helpline on 08459 15 15 15 or online at www.nidirect.gov.uk. Claims must be received by 30 March 2010 but those who submit their applications by 25 September 2009 should receive their payment before Christmas.

Notes to editors:

1. Winter Fuel Payment is available to both men and women aged 60 or over in the qualifying week, 21-27 September 2009.
2. Those not eligible include people who during the qualifying week have been living in residential care for the whole of that week and the previous 12 weeks or more and receive State Pension Credit or income based Jobseekers Allowance; have been receiving free in-patient hospital treatment for over 52 weeks; are detained in custody and sentenced; are subject to immigration control.
3. People who have questions about Winter Fuel Payments can contact the Winter Fuel Payment helpline on 08459 15 15 15 (0845 601 5613 for Textphone users). Calls may be free depending on your phone provider and the helpline is open from 8.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday. Information is also available on the website www.nidirect.gov.uk
4. Media enquiries to Joe Livingston, DSD Information Office on 028 9082 9468 or mobile 07920 187938. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715440 and your call will be returned.