The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed an automatic £100 increase in the Winter Fuel Payment for older state pensioners. This means eligible claimants will receive £300 instead of £200.
Payment Details for Winter 2026-2027
For the winter of 2026 to 2027, the DWP will pay £200 to younger state pensioners and £300 to older state pensioners. Those who have reached state pension age but are under 80 years old—born between September 28, 1946, and June 27, 1960—will receive £200. However, individuals aged 80 or over—born before September 28, 1946—will qualify for an instant £100 increase, bringing their total payment to £300.
Government Guidance
The Labour Party government explained: "You will receive a letter in October or November informing you of your Winter Fuel Payment amount if you are eligible. If you do not receive a letter but believe you are eligible, check whether you need to make a claim. The amount you receive depends on your date of birth and your circumstances during the qualifying week, which is September 21 to 27, 2026. You will receive either £200 if you were born between September 28, 1946, and June 27, 1960, or £300 if you were born before September 28, 1946."
Age UK Advice
Age UK provided additional guidance: "If you or your partner claims Pension Credit, Income Support, income-based Jobseeker's Allowance, or income-related Employment and Support Allowance, the payment will be made automatically to the main claimant of the benefit. If you have never received a Winter Fuel Payment before, or if you claim Universal Credit, you may need to make a claim. Additionally, if you receive Child Tax Credit or Working Tax Credit, you must make a claim. Payment should arrive between mid-November and Christmas. For enquiries or if you do not receive your payment, call the Winter Fuel Payment helpline at 0800 731 0160."
