Millions of pensioners across Scotland are set to benefit from a new annual heating payment worth £300 this year, known as the Pension Age Winter Heating Payment (PAWHP). This payment is designed to help pensioner households with heating costs during the colder months. The PAWHP will be replacing the UK Government's Winter Fuel Payment (WFP) specifically in Scotland from this winter.
Financial Assistance for Heating Costs
Over a million state pension recipients are expected to receive extra financial assistance through the PAWHP. The Scottish Government has confirmed that eligibility criteria and payment amounts for the PAWHP will closely mirror the existing Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) scheme. The payments will remain non-means tested and exempt from tax, ensuring that all recipients maintain their benefits.
Investment in Support
Officials estimate that the PAWHP will be an investment of around £180 million in the first year (2024/25), providing support to over one million eligible individuals. Claimants can receive up to £300, with the payment being non-means tested and tax-free. Payments are expected to hit eligible pensioner accounts automatically between November and January each year.
Qualifying Criteria
Individuals over the age of 66 or over 80, as well as their household status, will be considered for the PAWHP payment. Payment rates will vary depending on age and living arrangements, with rates remaining at £100, £150, £200, or £300. The exact guidelines for payment rates are yet to be confirmed, but it is suggested that the amount received will depend on household circumstances and age.
New Benefit Launch
Additionally, the Pension Age Disability Payment is set to replace Attendance Allowance in Scotland as part of a phased pilot launch in Autumn 2024. The weekly payment rates for the Pension Age Disability Payment will mirror those of the DWP, either £72.65 or £108.55, enabling older individuals to cover additional daily living expenses.
For more information on eligibility criteria and payment rates, individuals can visit the Scottish Government's website.