Money
Tax and benefits
Claim those cold weather benefits
Winter has hit hard already this year but many older people fail to claim benefits that could help with fuel costs during the cold months, writes Holly Thomas
In fact, billions in benefits - including pension credit, housing benefit and council tax benefit - remain in Government coffers rather than going to those most in need. In some cases, this unclaimed money could prevent serious illness or even death in the winter.
More than two million people switched off their heating last year to try and cut costs, putting on outdoor clothing such as hats and coats instead, according to an ICM poll commissioned by the British Gas Help the Aged Partnership.
Crucially, pensioners are missing out on benefits, with one in three older people are unaware of who they should contact for advice on getting help with paying energy bills.
Here's a checklist of what you might be entitled to, and where to find out more:
* The Winter Fuel benefit of £200 a year is paid to those between 60 and 79, inclusive, and £300 for the over-80s to help with energy bills.
If you're 60 or over and getting a state pension or other benefit (excluding Housing Benefit, Council Tax benefit or Child Benefit) then this money will come to you automatically. But if not, get a claim form by calling the Winter Fuel Payment helpline 08459 151 515.
In particular, men aged 60-65 who are still working and not yet receiving state pension may be missing out on the Winter Fuel payment because it isn't paid automatically to them.
* If you are receiving Pension Credit or another income-related benefit, you could be eligible for a Cold Weather payment of £8.50 to help with heating costs during particularly harsh weather in your area. Speak to your pension centre or Jobcentre Plus if you think you think you should be receiving these payments.
* Millions fail to claim Pension Credit every year, and it could help to make it easier to pay your bills. Four in 10 are not claiming this benefit worth an average £26.40 a week - £1,372 a year. To apply, contact the Pension Service on 0800 99 1234.
* Check with a benefits adviser or an online benefits calculator www.entitledto.co.uk to see what you might be missing. For a benefits check over the phone, call Help the Aged SeniorLine on 0808 800 6565.
Energy costs can also be reduced by making sure your home is energy efficient. Many older people are unaware that in addition they may be able to claim help with energy efficiency, insulation and heating improvements. Contact the Energy Saving Trust at www.est.org.uk.
Aside from making sure you are getting the benefits you deserve, it is important to make sure you are on the best tariff with your energy suppliers.
There's not a one-size fits all deal with any provider. They run different deals, just like mobile phone companies. And under the same theme, it's up to you to make sure you're on the right one.
Most believe, wrongly, they will be switched automatically to a better-value deal when their supplier announces price cuts. This is wrong - you need to apply to switch to the new tariff or you will remain paying the old and expensive rates.
Using comparison websites such as www.switchwithwhich.com or uSwitch.com and you can key in your postcode and find the cheapest supplier in your area.
You can switch using the site, so the leg work is done for you. Even better, if you use Moneysupermarket.com you get up to £30 cashback once your new tariff is in place.
* Holly Thomas is the deputy personal finance editor of the Daily Express and Sunday Express. Holly's opinions are her own and for general information only. Always seek independent financial advice.
