People who think they are eligible to receive a Winter Fuel Payment, have been urged to check on their status as plans are made to begin payments in November.

Social Development Minister, Mervyn Storey made the comment relating to the payments which are worth up to £300 is currently available to anyone who was born on, or before, 5 July 1952.

Encouraging people to apply, Minister Storey said: “With winter fast approaching it is imperative that older people get all the support they need to be able to meet the costs of their heating bills.

“While payments are automatic for previous claimants, some older people may not realise that they could be entitled to this extra money.” You are entitled to the Winter Fuel Payment if you: - were born on or before 5th July 1952, or; - were resident in the UK during the qualifying week of September 15-21 2014, and receiving State Pension or certain other qualifying benefits. The Winter Fuel Payment will be paid to these people automatically.

The Minister added: “I would encourage all those people born on or before July 5 1952, to contact the Winter Fuel Payment helpline on 0845 9151 515 to check if they can make a claim. With us all facing harder financial times, a little bit extra can always help.” New claimants can download a claim form online at: http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/winter-fuel-payment or call the helpline on 0845 9151 515 or 0845 606 0285 for textphone users.

Payments will start to issue in November 2014 and new claims must be received no later than March 31 2015.

Winter Fuel payments are £200 to those who live alone, and £300 for those aged over 80. If there is more than one eligible customer in the household the payment is split between them.