The DWP has confirmed the Winter Fuel Payment dates for 2025/26, with millions of Brits set to receive up to £300
Millions of UK households are set to receive the Winter Fuel Payment, although eligibility and payment times may vary. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that over nine million individuals born before 22 September, 1959 will receive between £100 and £300 to help cover the cost of increased heating bills this winter.
Eligible residents in care homes will receive Winter Fuel Payments of £100, while those aged between 66 and 79 will get £200, and pensioners aged 80 and above will receive the maximum amount of £300.
Winter Fuel Payments will start to automatically appear in bank accounts from this month and will continue throughout December. There’s no specific payment date, but letters have already begun to be sent out advising households on how much they can expect to receive, reports the Daily Record.
Eligibility for Winter Fuel Payments
You can get a Winter Fuel Payment if you were born before September 22, 1959 and live in England or Wales.
When you will not be eligible
You will not be eligible if you:
- live outside England and Wales (remember Scots will get the Pension Age Winter Heating Payment)
- were in hospital getting free treatment for the whole of the week of 15 to 21 September, 2025 and the year before that
- need permission to enter the UK and your granted leave says that you cannot claim public funds
- were in prison for the whole of the week of 15 to 21 September, 2025
Payment letters
DWP guidance states: “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.”
It’s crucial to be aware that fraudsters may attempt to deceive you into making a claim via text message, encouraging you to click on a link. This is not a genuine DWP communication and should be deleted.
If you believe you need to claim, follow the guidance on GOV.UK here. The sum you receive is determined by when you were born and your circumstances between 15 to 21 September 2025 (qualifying week).
Any funds you receive will not impact your other benefits.
When you will get paid
The DWP stated that most payments will be made automatically in November or December. You should receive a letter informing you:
- How much you’ll get
- Which bank account it will be paid into – this is usually the same account as your State Pension or other benefits
The DWP added: “If you do not get a letter or the money has not been paid into your account by 28 January 2026, contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre.” Full details on what you will need before contacting the Winter Fuel Payment Centre can be found on GOV.UK here.
