21 March 2006
Pensioners are being reminded to claim a government grant designed to help them with their winter fuel bill.
Those eligible to claim the Winter Fuel Payment must do so by the end of the month.
Anyone over the age of 60 can benefit from the payment of £200 as long as they claim it before March 30th.
Stephen Timms, minister for pensions reform, said: "While the recent cold spell should be making its exit soon, it's still not too late for pensioners to receive help with their fuel bills.
"Millions - regardless of their income - have already received the £200 Winter Fuel Payment to help heat their home, but there may be others who have not claimed.
"That's why I am reminding anyone over 60 to make sure they claim what's theirs. As long as you have not already received last winter's payment, and you claim by 30 March, you will be £200 the better off for a warmer home."
Those eligible can download a form from the Pension Service website or call 08459 15 15 15.
A total of £1.7 billion has been paid out so far by the government through the scheme, helping over 11 million people pay their winter fuel bill.
uSwitch.com's free and impartial comparison and switching service can help you find the best deal for your gas & electricity