The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that Winter Fuel Payments will return for winter 2026, but state pensioners with an income exceeding £35,000 must opt out by September 2026 or face having the £200 or £300 payment reclaimed by HMRC.
Opt-Out Deadline and Process
To avoid automatic repayment, eligible pensioners must opt out by completing an online form before 11:59pm on 20 September 2026 or by calling the helpline before 6pm on 18 September 2026. The National Insurance number is required for both methods.
The Labour government stated: "If your total income is over £35,000 and you did not opt out, HMRC will take your Winter Fuel Payment back. You cannot return it yourself. You can check how HMRC will take it back."
Future Payments and Opting In
Once opted out, pensioners will not receive the payment in future years unless they opt in again by contacting the Winter Fuel Payment Centre. For winter 2026 to 2027, they must do so before 31 March 2027, providing personal details including name, address, date of birth, and National Insurance number.
Failure to report changes promptly or providing incorrect information may require repayment of overpaid benefits, as detailed on the government website.
