Hundreds of thousands of older people across Britain are at risk of missing out on a vital £300 cost-of-living payment unless they take action this month.
Who Qualifies for the Winter Fuel Payment?
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is administering the Winter Fuel Payment, a crucial annual support designed to help retirees with their energy bills during the coldest months. Approximately nine million pensioners in England and Wales are eligible for the tax-free sum.
The amount received depends on your age and living situation during the qualifying week. The key dates revolve around 22 September 1945.
Payment Amounts Explained
The DWP uses a set of criteria to determine the exact payment. Here is a breakdown of what you could receive:
- £300 – If you were born before 22 September 1945 and live alone or with someone under 80.
- £200 – If you were born between 22 September 1945 and 21 September 1959.
- £150 – If both you and your live-in partner were born before 22 September 1945.
- £100 – In certain circumstances where both partners are under 80, or if you are under 80 but live with someone over 80.
Claim Now to Avoid Missing Out
While most eligible pensioners receive the payment automatically into their bank account in November or December, some must make a claim. You need to apply if you have not received the Winter Fuel Payment before, or if you have deferred your State Pension since your last payment.
The process can be started by post or phone via the Winter Fuel Payment Centre. The official deadline to claim for the winter of 2025 to 2026 is 31 March 2026. However, officials urge those who believe they should have received it to act promptly.
"Most payments are made automatically in November or December," said a DWP spokesperson. "You should get a letter telling you how much you’ll get and which bank account it will be paid into."
The department advises that if you have not received a letter or the money has not arrived in your account by 28 January 2026, you should contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre immediately to investigate.
With energy prices remaining a significant concern for households, this payment is a critical lifeline for many. Ensuring you have claimed what you are entitled to could make a real difference in managing winter bills.
