Around four million pensioners will not be eligible for Winter Fuel Payments this year after the Government introduced a £35,000 income threshold. The annual cash boost, worth either £200 or £300, helps over-65s with energy bills during the colder months and was previously paid to all pensioners.
Changes introduced after Labour came to power mean the allowance is now linked to income. Anyone with a total income above £35,000 will not qualify this year. Those who receive the payment initially will have it taken back by HMRC from their pension payments over the following year.
Income rule affects four million over-65s
The income rules mean around four million over-65s no longer qualify for the support. However, the majority of pensioners – approximately three-quarters – still do. The Government has confirmed that income rules are based on individual incomes rather than household incomes, meaning a partner's income does not count towards the total.
Winter Fuel Payments will start entering bank accounts again in November. Ministers said they wanted to ensure lower-income and vulnerable pensioners still received help with energy bills while stopping funds being spent on households that did not need the support.
Eligibility and payment details for winter 2026 to 2027
The Government explained: "If you were born on or before June 27, 1960 you could get between £100 and £300 to help you pay your heating bills for winter 2026 to 2027. This is known as a 'Winter Fuel Payment'."
Most people get the Winter Fuel Payment automatically if they are eligible. The Government said: "If you're eligible, you'll receive a letter in October or November saying how much you'll get. Most eligible people will be paid in November or December 2026."
The Government added: "If your total income is over £35,000, HMRC will take your Winter Fuel Payment back. Your partner's income does not count towards your total."
Impact on pensioners and next steps
The changes mean pensioners with incomes above the threshold will effectively lose the benefit, even if they initially receive it. Those affected will see the money recovered through adjustments to their pension payments over the following year. Pensioners who believe they may be affected are advised to check their income against the £35,000 limit and await the October or November letter confirming their payment amount.
