Winter Fuel Payments are now being sent out to help older people in Wales with their heating costs.
Last year 504,860 households in Wales received a payment.
Minister for Pensions, Steve Webb said: “We know that older people have higher heating costs which is why we kept our promise to protect Winter Fuel Payments.
“Over nine million households will benefit from the payment this winter to help with heating costs. This is on top of additional help through Cold Weather Payments if temperatures plummet.
“People should have the confidence to turn up their heating as winter hits.”
Most households with someone born on or before July 5, 1950, will receive £250 towards their winter fuel bills. Households with someone aged 80 and over will get £400.
Most payments will be paid automatically between now and January. If a payment hasn’t arrived by then, you can contact the office that pays your benefit. New customers who haven’t claimed yet, still have time, but claims must be received no later than March 30 2011.
Visit www.direct.gov.uk/winterfuel for more information.