This winter, it’s a big change for many pensioners. Instead of this benefit in order to help older people pay their heating bills, the Winter Fuel Payment is now being changed-so it will no longer be universal; only those with certain benefits, such as Pension Credit, will qualify. That means millions of pensioners will miss out on the payment they counted on to stay warm.

This change was introduced by the majority government of the Labour Party in order to repair public finances. They are of the view that giving the payment only to those who need most, they could save the cash to cover a £22 billion gap in the budget. Not everyone is excited about this plan. The fear that it will cause more problems for pensioners than it may cure is very high in many people as pensioners are already being squeezed between rising energy bills.

Why Are People Upset?

This change has infuriated many, not least because energy bills are once again going to rise. Ofgem, the energy regulator, announced recently that bills would leap by £150 in October. But now the Winter Fuel Payment will be means-tested, and those who do not qualify for it will have a truly miserable winter. Even some Labour Party members seem uncomfortable with this move and may not support it when the vote does come along.

The charities, such as Age UK, are speaking out. It thinks around two million vulnerable pensioners, who already struggle to pay their bills and stay warm, will have an even tougher time this winter. “This change could be really dangerous for some older people,” said Caroline Abrahams, a director at Age UK.

What Can You Do If You’re Affected?

If you’re concerned by the change to Winter Fuel Payment, well, don’t worry-there’s still something you can do to get help. Check If You’re Eligible for Pension Credit
First, you have to see if you qualify for this so-called Pension Credit. If you are, then you can continue getting Winter Fuel Payment. Most pensioners do not realize their eligibility for this benefit. As a matter of fact, Age UK estimates that about 800,000 eligible pensioners are not claiming their rights. You are at liberty to call their helpline or use their online benefits calculator to check your eligibility.

There’s a benefit called Pension Credit for anyone over the state pension age-which is currently 66-and on a low income. It tops up your weekly income to £218.15 if single or £332.95 if a couple. This will also trigger other benefits, such as a free TV license, help with the cost of NHS services, and help with housing. If you make more than that, even by just £50, you won’t be eligible for any of those extra benefits.

Check Other Benefits Similar to Attendance Allowance
If you don’t have eligibility for Pension Credit, you can get your support claimed in other ways. This generally includes the Attendance Allowance, which is a benefit designed for pensioners needing an assistant to help them with everyday activities. It’s not based on your income, so if you have a bit of money put aside, you’re still eligible. How much you’re entitled to is down to how much assistance you need, but this ranges between £3,700 and £5,644.60 annually. That might make quite a difference to pay your bills.

Look for Local Help from Household Support Fund
The government has given local councils some money through something called the Household Support Fund to provide help to vulnerable people. The exact nature of this help will depend upon exactly where you are and how each council has decided to spend this money. Some councils provide cash grants or supermarket vouchers and at least one provides support with energy bills. You can find out more by visiting your local council’s website.

Check with Your Energy Provider for Additional Support
Some energy firms are also offering support to those customers who cannot manage their bills. For example, British Gas has a grant of up to £2,000 for customers of any energy provider. Check with your energy firm if they have such a program that can help you.

Look for Charitable Grants
If you are still struggling to pay your bills, then there are charitable grants you might be entitled to. These come from a variety of different places, all with the intention of helping people in financial distress. For example, the charity Turn2us has an online tool that will help you find grants that could be available for your circumstances .

Why Is This All Happening Now?

These changes come as part of the Labour government’s efforts to address a large financial shortfall. They blame the previous government, claiming they left a £22 billion “black hole” in the budget. It was introduced along with other cuts in July by Rachel Reeves, a government member, in an attempt to balance the books. She admits that these changes are unpopular, but they are needed to avoid greater problems later on.

What Are People Saying About It?

Not everyone supports these changes. Many consider them unfair, to say the least, as the cost of living has gone up so much. Martin Lewis, the money-saving expert, combined a number of charities and urged the government to back off this plan. They have emphasized that taking away this support at this stage, without any proper warning and provisions being given, could lead to negative impacts on the health and finances of the most vulnerable pensioners.