NI Communities Minister, Gordon Lyons confirmed Stormont will be following Westminster's lead when it comes to winter fuel payments for pensioners.
The Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced the payments of up to £300 would become means tested in England and Wales, and would only be given to those on certain benefits.
In a written statement to the assembly, Gordon Lyons said while he did not agree with the move, Stormont would be maintaining parity with the rest of the UK.
What does this mean for Northern Ireland pensioners?
From this autumn, those not on pension credit or other means-tested benefits will no longer get the annual payments, worth between £100 and £300.
The payment had previously been made available to anyone above state-pension age, but now will be restricted to those on benefits and pension credit.
What is Pension Credit?
Pension credit is a form of means-tested benefit, which means it's based on income and savings
To be eligible for pension credit you need to be above state pension age and have an income of less that £218.15 a week or less than £332.95 as a joint weekly income with your partner
Your savings will also be taken into account and could mean you're still ineligible even if you're income is low
You may still be eligible despite these factors if you're disabled, care for someone or have housing costs.
Have your say
This will be an anxious time for many older people as we approach the winter months. Age UK are calling for an immediate halt to means testing the Winter Fuel Payment and have created a petition to protect the payment. Over 500,000 people have already supported the petition.
