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As winter edges closer, the government has once again confirmed financial help for millions of pensioners struggling with rising energy bills. The Winter Fuel Payment, managed by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), is designed to make sure older people can heat their homes without worrying about the extra cost.
For the 2025–2026 winter season, the allowance will range from £100 to £300, depending on age, household circumstances, and whether other benefits are being claimed.
What Is the Winter Fuel Payment?
The Winter Fuel Payment is a tax-free, one-off payment made to pensioners each winter. Unlike other schemes, it is not means-tested, which means your income or savings won’t usually affect your entitlement. The money is paid directly into your bank or building society account, usually alongside your State Pension or other benefits.
The main aim is simple: to ensure no pensioner has to choose between heating and other essentials during the coldest months.
Who Can Get the Payment?
To qualify this year, you must have been born before 22 September 1959 and be living in the UK during the qualifying week (15–21 September 2025).
However, there are a few exceptions:
- You will not qualify if you were in hospital for the entire qualifying week,
- If you were in prison during that week, or
- If immigration restrictions prevent you from claiming public funds.
Those living permanently outside the UK are also excluded, although there are limited exceptions for people in certain European countries or Switzerland.
It’s worth noting that Scotland now has its own Pension Age Winter Heating Payment, while Northern Ireland continues to run its own version of the scheme.
How Much Will You Receive in 2025–2026?
The exact amount depends on your date of birth, whether you live alone, and what other benefits you or your partner receive.
- £200 if you were born between 22 September 1945 and 21 September 1959
- £300 if you were born before 22 September 1945
- If you live with another eligible person, the amount may be split or adjusted
- If you live in a care home, the payment is reduced (between £100 and £150)
Importantly, this money does not affect other benefits and is not taxable.
When and How Will It Be Paid?
Most people who already receive the State Pension or certain benefits will get the payment automatically. A letter is usually sent in October or November confirming how much you will receive and which account it will go into.
Payments are expected to land in bank accounts between November and December 2025. If you haven’t received it by 28 January 2026, you should contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre.
How to Make a Claim
Not everyone is paid automatically. You’ll need to make a claim if:
- You have never received the Winter Fuel Payment before, or
- You deferred your State Pension.
Claims can be made by post from 15 September 2025 or by phone from 13 October 2025. The deadline for applications is 31 March 2026.
Other Help with Heating Bills
The Winter Fuel Payment is not the only support available. Pensioners may also benefit from:
- Cold Weather Payment – triggered if temperatures fall below zero for seven consecutive days.
- Warm Home Discount – a one-off £150 credit applied directly to energy bills for those on Pension Credit or certain low incomes.
- Household Support Fund – run by local councils to help households struggling with essential costs.
Final Thoughts
The Winter Fuel Payment remains a crucial lifeline for millions of pensioners, particularly at a time when energy prices remain unpredictable. By offering between £100 and £300, the DWP ensures that older people can keep their homes warm without sacrificing other daily needs.
If you think you may qualify but haven’t received the payment before, it’s important to check the rules carefully and make a claim before the deadline.
