Nine million pensioners to get automatic £200 payment in time for Christmas

Approximately nine million pensioners are set to receive a payment of at least £200. This sum is being distributed to pensioners as part of the Winter Fuel Payment scheme. The funds are expected to be automatically deposited into bank accounts later this year, with no action required from recipients to claim it.

Due to changes in eligibility rules, millions more pensioners will benefit from the support this year, reports Birmingham Live. This means that many individuals who didn't receive the winter allowance in 2024 can anticipate the bonus this year. Labour initially removed the benefit from millions of pensioners before being compelled to reverse their decision. Now, around 75% of seniors, those earning less than £35,000, will retain the cash.

Payments amount to £200 for those under 80, while those over 80 will receive £300. Winter Fuel Payments typically land in bank accounts during November, ensuring everyone has the cash in time for Christmas. All pensioners will initially receive the cash. However, HMRC will reclaim it from those whose incomes exceed the threshold of £35,000. Earlier in the year, the Government confirmed a U-turn on winter fuel after the change was met with public disapproval.