The Department for Work and Pensions has confirmed that the Winter Fuel Payment letters to pensioners abroad have been sent out this week, and the new rules have come into effect

Elderly people have slammed the DWP over the eligibility shake up and criteria changes under the new Labour Party government.

The benefit is now means-tested so not everyone is eligible

The latest UK Government data shows the number of people over State Pension age in receipt of a means-tested benefit who have already claimed Winter Fuel Payments has reached 74,400

The first people eligible for Winter Fuel Payments will start getting the money of around £300 in their bank accounts from next month, with millions missing out on the cash

The first people eligible for Winter Fuel Payments will start getting the money of around £300 in their bank accounts from next month.

Some pensioners could be eligible for payments up to £300

Benefit is designed to reward people who have saved up for retirement and the support in question is referred to as 'Savings Credit'.

It may appear counterintuitive, but the DWP benefit is designed to reward people who have saved up for retirement

The benefit is designed to reward people who have saved up for retirement and could mean you are eligible to receive up to £990.08 per year - here's how to apply

The Resolution Foundation said the winter fuel support had been “poorly targeted” as many of those struggling are working-age families rather than pensioners.

Latest data reveals a significant rise in Pension Credit claims following Chancellor Rachel Reeves's announcement that only individuals over the State Pension age receiving means-tested benefits will be eligible for Winter Fuel Payments

The DWP has shared a "support for families" update as it strives to make sure "children get the maintenance they deserve".