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What Is The Winter Fuel Bill Payment?
 If you have recently moved toSpain ( or any other country in the EEA ) to live permanently you may be surprised to know that it's not always 100 degrees in the shade. Although the Spanish Winters are nothing like those you may have previously experienced in the U.K, temperatures can drop considerably during the winter months. This of course means a greater use of your heating and in turn, a rise in the cost of your fuel bills.
But there is some good news. If you were born on or before 5th July 1951, you may be eligible for a tax-free winter fuel bill payment of up to ₤300 from the department of work and pensions for 2012/2013.
Although the payments will not make you an overnight millionaire, they may go a long way in helping to reduce the financial pressures that are all too often associated with the winter months.
Can I Get It If I Live InSpain?
Yes you can. As long as you meet the following criteria, you should be just fine.
- You have reached women's State Pension age
- You live in another European Economic Area (EEA) country or Switzerland
- You have a genuine and sufficient link with theUK, for example, you have lived or worked in theUKfor most of your working life
The qualifying period for the winter fuel allowance is 17 to 23 September 2012. So your payments will be determined on your personal situation during this time.
When Do You Get It?
Most winter fuel payments are made between mid November and December 2012. It is also worth noting that you must make your claim by 31st March 2013 at the latest.
How Much Do You Get?
It depends on a number of different factors, for example your age, whether you live alone and whether you are already in receipt of any other benefits. Generally though, the payment is between ₤100 and ₤300 per person. As an added bonus, the payment is also tax-free! A full list of payments can be found here.
How Do I Apply?
If you received the winter fuel bill payment last year, you most likely will not have to make a claim. On the other hand, if you have recently moved toSpainyou may need to speak with the department of work and pensions via their helpline.
You can download a copy of the form you will need to complete here. You will then need to print this and then send to the address on the form.
If you found this useful, please share with your friends or with those who may be eligible for this payment.
For further information, please see the pages below.
Winter Fuel Bill Main Page - Direct.Gov
Change In Your Circumstances - Direct.Gov
Full List Of Payments - Direct.Gov
Winter Fuel Payment Form (For those living in the EEA) - Direct.Gov
Image courtesy of the Guardian
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