The Government has launched a pension credit publicity campaign following the means test winter fuel payments decision. Chancellor Rachel Reeves introduced the means test, limiting the benefit to pensioners on pension credit, in response to the “dire state of public finances” inherited from the Conservatives. Previously, the payment was available universally to all pensioners since 1997.
Despite maintaining the triple lock, which will see state pensions rise significantly over the next five years, Reeves has faced criticism for the move. Critics warn that millions of pensioners could be forced to choose between heating their homes and eating a hot meal this winter. Over 370,000 people have signed an Age UK petition calling for the decision to be reversed.
The change has a significant impact. Government estimates suggest that 1.3 million households in England and Wales will still receive winter fuel payments, but around 130,000 people across the UK will lose out as they earn just above the pension credit threshold.
Campaigners argue that the triple lock increase won’t offset the loss of the winter fuel payment. While around 850,000 pensioners are eligible for pension credit but do not claim it, the Government believes the figure is closer to 880,000. The campaign aims to encourage these pensioners to apply before the 21 December deadline, which allows them to claim backdated payments and qualify for the winter fuel support this year.
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