Wed Sep 18 00:52:54 UTC 2024: ## Thousands Can Get £300 Winter Fuel Payment Through Universal Credit Loophole, But Time is Running Out

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced a change to the Winter Fuel Payment, making it accessible only to those receiving Pension Credit. However, a loophole exists that allows thousands to qualify for the £300 payment by claiming Universal Credit.

This opportunity applies to mixed-age couples where one partner is over state pension age (66) and the other is younger. As they are ineligible for Pension Credit, they must claim Universal Credit instead.

To qualify for the £300 payment, an active claim for Universal Credit (or other means-tested benefits) must be in place during the qualifying week of September 16-22. New claims for Universal Credit can be backdated one month, meaning the deadline to claim and qualify for the Winter Fuel Payment is October 18.

The Winter Fuel Payment will be worth £200 for eligible households or £300 for those with someone aged over 80. Payments are typically made automatically in November or December. Those who haven’t received payment by January 29, 2025, should contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre on 0800 731 0160.

Individuals can apply for Universal Credit online at gov.uk/universal-credit/how-to-claim. With the deadline approaching, those who may be eligible are encouraged to act quickly to secure this potential £300 payment.

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