The Winter Fuel Payment is one of the most valuable benefits available to older UK residents, providing £200, or £300 if you are 80 or over, to help cover heating costs over the coldest months. For winter 2026 to 2027 it goes to most people over State Pension age in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, but if your total income is over £35,000, HMRC takes it back through your tax code or Self Assessment. If you are eligible, you do not need to make a claim in most cases, as payments are made automatically. Our guide to unclaimed benefits covers other support you may be entitled to.
Who Qualifies for Winter Fuel Payment in 2026
To qualify for winter 2026 to 2027, you must have been born on or before 27 June 1960 and usually live in England, Wales or Northern Ireland, including during the qualifying week of 21 to 27 September 2026. You do not need to be on a means-tested benefit. Instead, if your total income is over £35,000 (your partner's income does not count), HMRC will take the payment back, usually by changing your tax code or through your Self Assessment return. You can opt out if you would rather not receive it. In Scotland, you cannot get the Winter Fuel Payment, but you may be able to get the Pension Age Winter Heating Payment instead.
How Much You Will Receive
The amount you receive depends on your age and your household circumstances. If you live alone, or no one you live with is eligible, you will receive £200, or £300 if you were born before 28 September 1946. If you live with someone else who is eligible, the payment is usually shared, for example £100 each if you were both born between 28 September 1946 and 27 June 1960. If you live in a care home, the payment is £100 or £150. You should get a letter in October or November, and most payments are made in November or December, usually into the same account as your State Pension or other benefits. The amounts are the same as for winter 2025 to 2026.
- Under 80, living alone or with no other eligible person: £200
- Aged 80 or over, living alone or with no other eligible person: £300
- Living with another eligible person: the payment is shared, usually £100 to £200 each
How to Claim If You Do Not Receive It Automatically
Most people who qualify receive the payment automatically — if you already get the State Pension, Pension Credit or certain other benefits, you should receive your Winter Fuel Payment without needing to do anything. However, if you have never claimed and think you should qualify, you can claim by calling the Winter Fuel Payment helpline or applying online via Gov.uk. You will need your National Insurance number, bank or building society details, and details of any benefits you currently receive. The deadline to claim for winter 2026 to 2027 is 31 March 2027. Claiming is free, and there is no reason to use a paid claims service.
- winter fuel payment
- benefits
- pensioners
- energy bills
- heating costs