The Department for Work and Pensions has confirmed a September 28 deadline for the Winter Fuel Payment. The DWP has confirmed £200 or £300 payments for state pensioners this year.
Winter Fuel Payment Details
The Winter Fuel Allowance will be made during November or December ahead of winter energy bills increasing for millions of households. To qualify for the Winter Fuel Payment during the 2026/27 tax year, pensioners must have been born before June 28, 1960.
The amount each household receives will depend on a person's age and circumstances during the qualifying week, which this year falls between September 21 and September 27, 2026.
Payment Amounts
Pensioners born between September 28, 1946 and June 27, 1960 who live alone are set to receive £200. Older pensioners born before September 28, 1946 are expected to qualify for the higher £300 payment.
The DWP confirmed that payment amounts can differ for people who share a home with another eligible claimant and receive certain means-tested benefits.
Automatic Payments
Most eligible pensioners will automatically receive the payment without needing to make a claim. Qualifying benefits include Attendance Allowance, Personal Independence Payment and Carer's Allowance.
Others include Disability Living Allowance, Income-related Employment and Support Allowance and awards made under the War Pensions Scheme.
The DWP said: "You'll get a letter in October or November telling you how much winter fuel payment you'll get, if you're eligible.
"If you do not get a letter but think you're eligible, check if you need to make a claim."
Repayment for Higher Earners
HMRC will reclaim the payment from pensioners whose annual income exceeds £35,000. The repayment will either be made through an adjustment to a person's tax code or through their Self Assessment tax return.
Contact Information
The DWP said pensioners should contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre if the payment has not arrived by January 27, 2027.
The DWP added: "If you do not get a letter or the money has not been paid into your account by January 27, 2027, contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre."
