The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), under the Labour Party government, has announced the rollout of seasonal Winter Fuel Payments following a significant rule change implemented this year.
Who Qualifies for the £300 Payment?
Approximately nine million pensioners across the UK are set to receive a £300 payout to help with heating costs during the colder months. The DWP has confirmed that you can still receive the payment if you live in a care home.
However, a major caveat applies: you will not be eligible if you have lived in a care home for the entire period from 23 June 2025 or earlier.
Key Groups Excluded from the Payment
The government has issued clear guidance outlining several groups who will not receive the Winter Fuel Payment. Crucially, individuals receiving any of the following five income-related benefits are excluded:
- Pension Credit
- Universal Credit
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA)
- Income Support
Further ineligibility criteria include being in hospital for free treatment during the whole week of 15 to 21 September 2025 and the same period the year before. The payment will also not be made to those who need permission to enter the UK and whose leave states they cannot claim public funds.
Residents of Scotland and Northern Ireland are also excluded, as the payment is for those living in England and Wales only. Additionally, anyone who was in prison for the entire week of 15 to 21 September 2025 is not eligible.
Payment Collection and Opting Out
The DWP has clarified the process for higher-income pensioners. Those above a £35,000 threshold will have the full amount of the Winter Fuel Payment they received automatically collected. This will be done via the PAYE system or through a Self-Assessment return.
The department stated, "No one will need to register with HMRC for this or take any further action." For pensioners who wish to decline the payment entirely, an opt-out option will be available, with further details to be confirmed and published.
Complete information on all eligibility criteria for the Winter Fuel Payment can be found on the official GOV.UK website.
