Millions across England and Wales will get the payment this winter
James Rodger Content Editor and Rory Poulter
12:59, 01 Oct 2025
If you were born before September 22, 1959, you could be eligible for between £100 and £300(Image: Vladimir Vladimirov via Getty Images)
Millions of older people are in line for up to £300 this winter to help with soaring heating costs, but thousands risk missing out unless they act fast. The Department for Work and Pensions is handing out the Winter Fuel Payment to around nine million pensioners across England and Wales, offering a vital boost as temperatures drop and energy bills bite.
But while most will see the money land in their accounts automatically, some will need to apply manually – or get nothing at all. The government has released a claim form for those who don’t qualify for the automatic payment. It applies to people who either haven’t received a Winter Fuel Payment before, or who have deferred taking their State Pension since their last payment. Without action, they could be left out in the cold.
To be eligible, you must have been born before September 22, 1959 – and depending on your circumstances, you could receive between £100 and £300 for the 2025–26 winter season.
(Image: RealPeopleGroup via Getty Images)
Claim forms are available now on the official GOV.UK website and can be posted to the Winter Fuel Payment Centre. From October 13, applicants can also call 0800 731 0160 to make a claim by phone. You’ll need your National Insurance number, banking details, and – if relevant – the date you were married or entered a civil partnership.
The deadline for all claims is March 31, 2026 – but most payments will be made well before then, usually in November or December. Letters are typically sent out confirming the amount and the bank account it will be paid into. If you haven’t received either the letter or the money by January 28, 2026, you should contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre.