These are the latest announcements by the Government on the Cost of Living Crisis and its response.
Pension Credit Cost of Living Payment eligibility
Pensioners in receipt of Pension Credit will automatically be paid the Cost of Living Payments. In total, they could be entitled to an extra £650, paid in two instalments.
To be eligible for the first Cost of Living Payment, a person must be entitled to a payment of Pension Credit on any day from 26 April to 25 May 2022. However, new claims for Pension Credit can be backdated for a maximum of three months provided the entitlement conditions are met throughout the three months.
To guarantee that 25 May will be included in the first Pension Credit payment for pensioners wishing to backdate a new claim, we are advising that claims should be made as soon as possible and no later than 18 August.
We would like to ensure everyone who is eligible for Pension Credit, claims it as soon as possible so they do not miss out on the Cost of Living Payment. Pensioners, or friends or relatives on their behalf, can use this calculator to check if they qualify.
£400 energy bills discount to support households this winter
Millions of households across Great Britain will receive non-repayable discounts on their energy bills this winter with the Energy Bills Support Scheme.
The £400 discount, administered by energy suppliers, will be paid to consumers over six months with payments starting from October 2022, to ensure households receive financial support throughout the winter months.
Those with a domestic electricity meter point paying for their energy via standard credit, payment card and direct debit will receive an automatic deduction to their bills over the six-month period – totalling £400.
In all cases, no household should be asked for bank details at any point. Consumers are being urged to stay alert of potential scams and report these to the relevant authorities where they are suspected.
