Citizens' Advice, the End Fuel Poverty Coalition and Age UK have also spoken out after Chancellor Rachel Reeves made the announcement on Monday afternoon
The Chancellor's decision to end the previously universal winter fuel payment for pensioners unless they are on benefits has been branded "too narrow with the winter we have coming". The payments of up to £300 have been made available to everyone above state pension age.
"But, today, I am making the difficult decision that those not in receipt of pension credit or certain other means-tested benefits will no longer receive the winter fuel payment. From this year onwards, the Government will continue to provide winter fuel payments worth £200 for households receiving pension credit, or £300 for households in receipt of pension credit with someone over the age of 80.
"Many pensioners eke out the £100 to £300 winter fuel payments to allow them to keep some heating on through the cold months. While there's an argument for ending its universality due to tight national finances, it's being squeezed to too narrow a group - just those on benefits and pension credit. Yet again, those just above the thresholds will be hardest hit."
"Figures for the Warm This Winter campaign suggest that around 41% of over-75s could now see their winter heating budget torn to shreds as they have modest incomes and will not now be eligible for the payment. The Chancellor must urgently think again and consult with older people's charities on a better way to target this support to a wider group of pensioners."
Last year, the Department for Work and Pensions sent out "invitation to claim" letters to those likely to be eligible for pension credit, as part of a trial. Pension credit can be claimed by phone and online, and an online calculator can help pensioners check if they are likely to be eligible and get an estimate of what they may receive.
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