Millions of pensioners will have begun receiving their Winter Fuel Payments in their bank accounts. The financial support, designed to assist with spiralling energy costs, is being distributed to millions of over-65s throughout November and December.

Previously, the payment was available to all pensioners, but last year the Labour government restricted eligibility to only those claiming certain means-tested benefits, such as Pension Credit. This dramatically reduced the number of recipients to just 1.5 million people entitled to assistance with their winter heating bills.

However, this year, following considerable pressure from pensioners' organisations, the criteria were revised once more. Chancellor Rachel Reeves has reinstated the payment for pensioners earning up to £35,000, bro

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