- The government has expanded eligibility for the winter fuel payment, now including pensioners with incomes at or below £35,000.
- Previously, only those receiving pension credit were eligible, but now two-thirds of pensioners will receive the £200-300 payment.
- The Treasury stated the new threshold balances support for lower-income pensioners with fairness to taxpayers.
- This change is estimated to cost taxpayers £1.25bn in England and Wales, saving £450m compared to universal availability.
- The payment will be made automatically this winter, with those above the £35,000 threshold having the payment recovered via HMRC or the option to opt out.
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