The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that while the Winter Fuel Payment will be sent automatically to millions, certain individuals will still need to submit a claim for this year.
Following public backlash, the Government reversed its earlier decision to cut the benefit. Around nine million pensioners will receive the payment without applying, but others must confirm eligibility.
Automatic and Manual Claims
- Automatic Payments – Most pensioners will be paid automatically if they meet the eligibility requirements.
- Claim Required – Some individuals may need to apply, particularly if:
- They’ve never received a Winter Fuel Payment before.
- They’ve deferred their State Pension.
- Their details have changed, such as moving back to the UK after living abroad.
Claim Dates:
- By Post – From September 15, 2025
- By Phone – From October 13, 2025
Payment Schedule and Amounts
Payments of £200 or £300 will be issued between November and December 2025.
The exact amount depends on date of birth, living arrangements, and benefit status during the qualifying week (September 15–21, 2025).
| Situation | Born Between Sept 22, 1945 – Sept 21, 1959 | Born Before Sept 22, 1945 |
|---|---|---|
| Live alone or with no one eligible | £200 | £300 |
| Live with another eligible person – no benefits | £100 | £150 |
| Live with eligible person & on benefits (joint claim) | £200 | £300 |
| Receive benefits individually | £200 | £300 |
| Income over £35,000 | £100 | £150 |
If you live in a care home, you can still qualify unless you:
- Receive Pension Credit, Universal Credit, Income Support, income-based JSA, or income-related ESA
- Have lived in a care home continuously since June 23, 2025 or earlier
Who Qualifies
You will automatically qualify if:
- You live in England or Wales
- You were born before September 22, 1959
You will not qualify if:
- You live outside England or Wales
- You were in hospital for the entire qualifying week (and the year before)
- You’re in prison for the whole qualifying week
- Your immigration status prevents access to public funds
Payments and Tax
The Winter Fuel Payment is tax-free unless your annual income is over £35,000, in which case HMRC will reclaim the full amount via PAYE or Self Assessment.
How You’ll Be Notified
- A letter will be sent in October or November detailing:
- The amount you’ll receive
- The bank account it will be paid into
- If you do not receive a letter or payment by January 28, 2026, contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre.
Scam Warning from DWP
The DWP warns pensioners to be alert for scam emails or texts claiming to be from the department.
- Official messages will never ask you to click links or provide personal details.
- If you receive such a message, delete it immediately.
Opting Out
If you do not wish to receive future Winter Fuel Payments, you must notify the Winter Fuel Payment Centre before September 15, 2025.
The Winter Fuel Payment 2025–2026 offers crucial help for pensioners facing rising heating costs, with amounts ranging from £100 to £300 depending on age, benefits, and living arrangements.
Most recipients will get the payment automatically, but those who’ve never claimed before, have deferred their State Pension, or have had significant changes in circumstances should ensure they submit a claim.
Staying vigilant against scams and checking eligibility early will help ensure no one misses out on this essential winter support.
FAQs
Do I need to apply if I already receive a State Pension?
No, if you receive the State Pension or certain other benefits during the qualifying week, you will get the payment automatically.
What happens if my income is above £35,000?
You’ll still get the payment initially, but HMRC will reclaim the full amount through your tax return or PAYE.
Can I receive the Winter Fuel Payment if I live in a care home?
Yes, unless you also receive certain income-related benefits and have lived in the care home since June 23, 2025 or earlier.