The UK Government has confirmed details of the Winter Fuel Payment 2025-2026, with pensioners set to receive between £100 and £300 to help with heating costs during the coldest months of the year. The allowance, overseen by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), remains one of the most significant forms of seasonal support for older citizens.
Rising energy bills and living costs continue to put financial pressure on households. This one-off, tax-free payment is intended to ease the burden by covering heating expenses during winter, a time when older people face the greatest risk from cold-related health issues.
The DWP has outlined the full eligibility criteria, payment amounts, and claim process. Payments will be made automatically to most pensioners, with only a small number requiring an application.
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What the Winter Fuel Payment Covers
The Winter Fuel Payment is a one-off seasonal allowance provided to those above State Pension age. It is separate from other government benefits and does not usually affect entitlement to means-tested support.
The scheme aims to protect older people from cold-related risks by ensuring homes can be kept warm without difficult financial trade-offs. It is paid directly into bank accounts and can be combined with other winter help, such as the Cold Weather Payment and the Warm Home Discount.
While income and savings do not normally affect entitlement, people with annual incomes above £35,000 may have the payment taken into account through tax adjustments.
Who Qualifies for the 2025-2026 Scheme
To receive the allowance in the 2025-2026 winter season, a person must have been born before 22 September 1959. They must also have been living in the UK during the qualifying week of 15-21 September 2025.
Different rules apply in devolved nations. In Scotland, pensioners receive support through the Pension Age Winter Heating Payment. In Northern Ireland, a scheme similar to England and Wales continues to operate.
- Those in the hospital receive free treatment during the whole qualifying week.
- Pensioners serving a prison sentence during that week.
- Individuals with immigration restrictions that prevent access to public funds.
- Those living permanently abroad outside eligible areas.
Payment Rates for 2025-2026
The payment amount depends on age and household circumstances. It is based on conditions during the qualifying week in September 2025.
| Living Situation | Born 22 Sept 1945-21 Sept 1959 | Born Before 22 Sept 1945 |
|---|---|---|
| Living alone or no other eligible adult | £200 | £300 |
| Living with another eligible pensioner | £100 each | £150 each |
| Living in a care home (not on income-related benefits) | £100 | £150 |
| Living in a care home (both on income-related benefits) | Not eligible | Not eligible |
The highest amount of £300 is paid to those born before 22 September 1945 who live alone. Couples or shared households receive a split amount to avoid duplication of support.
Other Energy Support Available
The Winter Fuel Payment is part of a wider set of measures designed to support households during the winter period.
- Cold Weather Payment – Paid automatically when the temperature is at or below 0°C for seven consecutive days, worth £25 for each qualifying week.
- Warm Home Discount – Offers a £150 credit directly to electricity bills for pensioners on Pension Credit and selected low-income households.
- Household Support Fund – Local councils provide emergency help with essential bills, including energy and food. Rules differ by council.
Together, these programmes form a layered system of assistance, ensuring vulnerable groups are supported in different ways.
How to Claim the Winter Fuel Payment
Most pensioners will receive the allowance automatically if they are claiming State Pension, Pension Credit, or other qualifying benefits.
Those who have never received the payment before or who deferred their State Pension must submit a claim.
- Claim forms by post are available from 15 September 2025.
- Phone applications open from 13 October 2025 via the Winter Fuel Payment Centre.
- Final deadline for claims: 31 March 2026.
This ensures pensioners have several months to complete their applications if needed.
When Payments Will Be Made
Letters will be sent in October and November 2025, confirming the amount due and the payment account.
Payments are usually processed in November and December, aligning with the peak winter period. If the allowance has not been received by January 28, 2026, pensioners should contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre to investigate any delays.
| Stage | Date |
|---|---|
| Qualifying week | 15–21 September 2025 |
| Claim forms available (post) | 15 September 2025 |
| Telephone claims open | 13 October 2025 |
| Letters issued | October–November 2025 |
| Payments sent | November–December 2025 |
| Deadline for claims | 31 March 2026 |
Keeping Details Updated
The DWP requires recipients to keep their personal details up to date. Moving to a new address, entering residential care, or changing bank accounts can all affect payments. Pensioners can also opt out if they do not wish to receive the allowance, provided this is done before mid-September 2025.
If circumstances change and are not reported, the DWP may recover overpayments. Maintaining accurate records helps ensure smooth payments without interruption.
Hi ,I borne 1948 Why I am not receiving any government benefits