Millions of pensioners across England, Wales and Northern Ireland will receive Winter Fuel Payments of up to £300 later this year, with automatic payments scheduled for November and December.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) confirmed that people born on or before June 27, 1960 could qualify for the support, which helps older households manage higher heating costs during the colder months.
DWP Confirms Qualifying Week And Payment Schedule
The amount received will depend on a pensioner’s age and living circumstances during the qualifying week, which runs from September 21 to September 27, 2026.
According to the Daily Record, millions of eligible pensioners will receive letters in October and November explaining how much they are due. Most payments will then be made automatically into the same bank account used for State Pension or other benefits.
DWP guidance explains: “You’ll get a letter in October or November telling you how much Winter Fuel Payment you’ll get, if you’re eligible.
“If you do not get a letter but think you’re eligible, check if you need to make a claim.”
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Who Can Receive The Winter Fuel Payment
People living in England, Wales and Northern Ireland can qualify if they were born on or before June 27, 1960 and meet the other eligibility rules.
Some people will not receive the payment, including those who were outside the qualifying criteria because of long-term hospital stays, prison sentences during the qualifying week, or immigration conditions preventing access to public funds.
People living in care homes may also qualify in certain circumstances. Those receiving specific benefits and who lived in a care home for the relevant period may not be eligible.
Scotland Has A Different Winter Heating Payment System
Pensioners in Scotland will not receive the Winter Fuel Payment because it has been replaced by the Pension Age Winter Heating Payment (PAWHP).
The qualifying week for this payment is also September 21 to September 27, 2026. Eligible Scottish pensioners must have lived in Scotland on at least the final day of that period.
Payments from Social Security Scotland will range from £105.55 to £316.70 and will begin from November.
Payment Amounts Depend On Age And Household Situation
The payment can range from £100 to £300 depending on factors including a person’s date of birth, whether they live alone, whether another eligible pensioner lives with them, and whether they receive certain benefits.
Pensioners born before September 28, 1946 can receive higher payments in several circumstances, while those born between September 28, 1946 and June 27, 1960 may receive lower amounts.
People who live alone or with no other eligible person may receive £200 or £300 depending on their age. Those living with another eligible pensioner may receive a different amount based on both people’s circumstances.
Higher Income Pensioners Could Repay The Payment
People with annual incomes above £35,000 may have their Winter Fuel Payment recovered by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC).
HMRC can recover the money by adjusting a person’s tax code or adding the amount to a Self Assessment tax return.
The payment itself does not affect other benefits, according to DWP guidance.
Pensioners Warned About Winter Fuel Payment Scams
Authorities are also warning older people to be cautious about fake messages claiming to offer Winter Fuel Payment applications.
Scammers may send text messages containing links asking people to provide personal details. The official process does not require pensioners to follow links from unofficial messages.
DWP said people who believe they should receive a payment but do not receive a letter should check the official guidance on GOV.UK.
DWP added: “If you do not get a letter or the money has not been paid into your account by 27 January 2027, contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre.”
