The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that the £300 Winter Fuel Payment will soon be available to eligible pensioners. With applications opening from mid‑September, this vital support can help older households manage heating costs this winter.
Payment Snapshot
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Claim Start Dates | Post: from 15 September 2025<br>Phone: from 13 October 2025 |
| Qualifying Week | 15–21 September 2025 |
| Payment Amounts | Typically £200, or £300 if aged 80+ |
| Where Paid | England & Wales; Scotland has separate scheme |
| Deadline to Claim | 31 March 2026 |
| Recovery if Income High | Over £35,000 taxable income—reclaimed through tax code or Self Assessment |
Who Gets It Automatically?
Most pensioners won’t need to apply to receive the Winter Fuel Payment. It’s automatically sent to those claiming benefits like State Pension, Pension Credit, Universal Credit, and others during the qualifying week.
Who Needs to Claim Manually?
You’re required to claim manually if:
- You did not receive it previously, or
- You deferred your State Pension and haven’t yet received the payment.
Claims can be made by post from 15 September 2025, or by phone starting 13 October 2025. All claims must be submitted by 31 March 2026.
How Much Could You Receive?
Payment varies by age and living situation:
- £300 if you’re aged 80 or older.
- £200 if you’re aged below 80.
- If living with others who also qualify:
- Shared payment may be £100–£300, depending on combined ages and benefit status.
The exact amount will be confirmed by letter, arriving October–November, and the money will be paid between November and December 2025.
Beware of Scams
DWP never sends texts or emails asking for personal or bank details to apply for the Winter Fuel Payment. Fraudsters have targeted vulnerable pensioners with fake links and urgent requests. If you receive such messages, do not respond—report suspicious outreach to 7726 or Action Fraud.
The £300 Winter Fuel Payment is set to support around nine million pensioners in England and Wales this winter.
Most will receive it automatically—but those not on applicable benefits or who deferred their pension must claim by post (from 15 September) or phone (from 13 October). Secure this help by 31 March 2026, and always be vigilant against scams.