As energy prices continue to rise, the Winter Fuel Payment offers much-needed assistance to pensioners struggling with heating bills. Worth up to £300 per household, this annual payment is a vital lifeline for older adults during the colder months. Here’s everything you need to know about the Winter Fuel Payment for 2025–2026, including eligibility, how to claim, and key deadlines.
What Is the Winter Fuel Payment?
The Winter Fuel Payment is a yearly allowance provided by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to help older individuals cover their winter heating costs. The amount is either £200 per household, or £300 if someone in the household is aged 80 or above.
This payment is usually issued automatically, but certain individuals must submit a claim if they are not receiving qualifying benefits.
When and How to Apply in 2025
The DWP will open applications for the 2025 Winter Fuel Payment on September 15, 2025, for postal claims. For those preferring to claim by phone, applications will be accepted starting October 13, 2025.
- Postal applications begin: September 15, 2025
- Phone applications begin: October 13, 2025
- Final date to claim: March 31, 2026
Who Gets It Automatically?
Roughly nine million pensioners will receive the Winter Fuel Payment automatically if they are already receiving any of the following DWP benefits:
- State Pension
- Pension Credit
- Universal Credit
- Attendance Allowance
- Carer’s Allowance
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Income Support
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- War Pensions Scheme
- Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit
- Incapacity Benefit
- DWP Industrial Death Benefit
If you receive any of the above, you do not need to apply.
Who Needs to Make a Claim?
You must apply for the Winter Fuel Payment if:
- You’ve never received the payment before, or
- You’ve deferred your State Pension since your last Winter Fuel Payment
Applications must be made by post or phone only, and cannot be submitted online.
Payment Amounts and Income Rules
- £200 per household
- £300 if someone in the household is 80 or older
If your income exceeds £35,000, HMRC may reclaim part or all of the Winter Fuel Payment through the tax system. Additionally, individuals may choose to opt out of receiving the payment entirely.
Eligibility Requirements
To receive the 2025–2026 Winter Fuel Payment, individuals must have reached State Pension age by the end of the eligibility week, which typically falls in September each year.
Conclusion
The 2025–2026 Winter Fuel Payment offers crucial support for pensioners as heating costs climb. While most recipients will get it automatically, it’s important for those not on qualifying benefits or who have never received it before to submit a claim between September 15, 2025, and March 31, 2026. Ensure you check your eligibility and act on time to secure this valuable winter assistance.
FAQs
1. What is the maximum Winter Fuel Payment I can receive in 2025?
You can receive up to £300 per household if a resident is aged 80 or over. Otherwise, the payment is £200 per household.
2. Do I need to apply if I already get State Pension?
No, if you’re already receiving the State Pension or other listed benefits, the payment will be issued automatically.
3. How can I claim if I’m not receiving benefits?
You can claim by post starting September 15, 2025, or by phone starting October 13, 2025. Claims must be submitted by March 31, 2026.
4. Will HMRC deduct the payment if I earn too much?
Yes, if your income is above £35,000, HMRC may take back the Winter Fuel Payment through the tax system.
5. Can I refuse the Winter Fuel Payment?
Yes, recipients who do not wish to receive the payment can opt out by notifying the DWP.