A warmer winter for all over-60s

Yes, you are eligible. The Government relaxed the rules on 16 November last year. Since then everyone over the age of 60 qualifies for the payment 'regardless of whether they are claiming a pension or one or another qualifying benefit,' according to the Department of Social Security.

But before this date, only people of pensionable age - 60 for women, 65 for men - were eligible, and they also had to be receiving the basic state pension - or some other benefit.

There are some restrictions, though. Only one Winter Fuel Payment is made per household. The timing of a potential claimant's birthday is important too. Although the payment is made in December, the qualifying date is the September before - this year in the week starting 18 September.

In your case, it is possible that you could qualify for a rebate for last year. The DSS will backdate payments to 1997 if you met the age requirement for all or some of that period.

• For more information on how to claim, ring the DSS helpline on 08459 151515.

• Problem at work? Write to Neasa MacErlean, The Observer, 119 Farringdon Road, London EC1 3ER. Answers are for guidance only.