This week, two groups of pensioners in the UK will see up to £300 deposited into their bank accounts as part of the yearly Winter Fuel Payment scheme.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that those over State Pension age can claim by phone or post, and many will receive the funds automatically in November or December.
In England and Wales, around 9 million pensioners will automatically receive their Winter Fuel Payments during November and December.
In Scotland, at least 880,000 pensioners will get up to £305 through the Pension Age Winter Heating Payment, which is a similar but separate scheme.
Only those born before 22 September 1959 are eligible to receive payments in this cycle.
Payment Amounts & Eligibility
The exact amount a pensioner receives depends on several factors — age, household situation, and benefit status. The payment is tax-free and does not affect other benefits.
| Scenario | Payment for 2025/26 |
|---|---|
| Household with someone aged under 80 | £200 |
| Household with someone aged 80 or over | £300 |
| Scotland (Pension Age Winter Heating Payment) | Up to £305 |
Those eligible will get a letter in October or November stating how much they’ll receive. For those who haven’t received a letter or believe they qualify, a claim can be made by phone or post.
Who Needs to Claim
Most pensioners will not need to apply — the payment is automatic if they meet criteria during the qualifying week (15–21 September 2025). But certain pensioners must make a claim:
You must claim if:
- You’ve never claimed before, or
- You have deferred your State Pension (i.e. delayed claiming) since your last Winter Fuel Payment.
You do not need to claim if you already receive any of these benefits:
- State Pension
- Pension Credit
- Universal Credit
- Attendance Allowance
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Carer’s Allowance
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Income Support
- income-related ESA / Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- War Pensions / Industrial Injuries
- Incapacity Benefit / Death Benefits
The deadline to claim for winter 2025/26 is 31 March 2026.
Scotland’s Separate Scheme
In Scotland, the traditional Winter Fuel Payment no longer applies. Instead, pensioners benefit from the Pension Age Winter Heating Payment, which follows similar rules and is issued automatically by Social Security Scotland, usually beginning in November for eligible individuals.
Scam Alert: Beware Fake Messages
DWP cautions pensioners about fraudulent texts or emails prompting them to click links or call unfamiliar numbers to “claim” their Winter Fuel Payment.
These are scams. Always rely on official sources and never share personal or banking information based on unsolicited messages.
If you’re a pensioner born on or before 22 September 1959, you may be in one of the two groups receiving a £300 (or up to £305 in Scotland) Winter Fuel Payment this week.
Many receive payments automatically, but eligible individuals who haven’t received a letter may need to claim by phone or post before 31 March 2026. This payment offers crucial support during the colder months, helping older people manage energy costs without affecting other benefits.
Stay alert to scams, and if in doubt, check your eligibility or contact the proper Winter Fuel Payment channels.
FAQs
Will claiming this payment affect my other benefits?
No. The Winter Fuel Payment is tax-free and does not reduce or interfere with other benefits.
Why do only some pensioners get the full £300?
Because the amount depends on age (if someone in the household is 80 or older) and living arrangements. The base amount is £200 unless the higher-age condition is met.
What should I do if I haven’t received the payment by February 2026?
You should contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre and provide details. The DWP states that if the payment isn’t in your account by 28 January, you should reach out.