Winter is coming: how much and when will pensioners receive?
The Department for Work and Pensions has confirmed the amount of winter fuel payments for pensioners. Over nine million people in the UK are eligible to receive this money.
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The department stated that those born on or before September 22, 1959, will automatically receive this money. Last year, the £300 payment, which could only be claimed by those receiving specific types of assistance, was canceled.
How much will pensioners receive?
The payment amount will range from £100 to £300 and will be issued in November or December of this year. The amount of the payment will depend on age and household circumstances during the qualifying period from September 15 to September 21.
Letters detailing the payment will be sent in October or November, indicating the payment amount and the bank account to which the funds will be transferred.
“You will receive a letter in October or November stating how much you will receive for the winter fuel payment if you are eligible.”
Who is eligible for the payment?
Residents of Scotland will not receive this payment, as it has been replaced by the Winter Heating Payment for pensioners, which is provided automatically. This scheme has similar criteria, but the Scottish Social Security Agency will start payments at the end of November.
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Pensioners in England and Wales should pay attention to the eligibility criteria: you cannot receive the payment if:
you live outside England or Wales;
you were in hospital receiving free treatment during the week from September 15 to September 21;
you meet UK entry requirements that disallow claiming public funds;
you were in custody during the week from September 15 to September 21.
People living in care homes may also be eligible for the payment, but under certain conditions. For example, if you are receiving Universal Credit or Pension Credit and lived in a care home from June 23, 2025, or earlier, you will not be eligible for payment.
The payment amount depends on various factors: if you live alone, you will receive £200 or £300 depending on your birth date. If you live as a couple, the amount may vary from £100 to £200 depending on your partner’s age.
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If your total income exceeds £35,000, all payments will return to the budget through the tax return or PAYE system.
The department also emphasized: “If you have not received a letter or money has not arrived in your account by January 28, 2026, contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre.”
There is also the option to opt-out of the winter fuel payment by filling out a form by September 14 or calling the helpline by 18:00 on September 12.
This information is crucial for millions of pensioners in the UK who are awaiting winter fuel payments to ease financial burdens during the cold months. The payments will provide support as heating cost reductions become an increasingly pressing issue amid rising living and energy costs. Pensioners have a right to know about their options and payment timelines to avoid misunderstandings. Overall, this is a positive step towards social support for older citizens.