The Scottish Government has confirmed that at least 880,000 pensioners will receive the Pension Age Winter Heating Payment (PAWHP) to support heating costs during the cold months.
From November 2025, eligible older people will automatically receive a one-off winter payment, with amounts based on their age and living situation.
For those aged between 66 and 79, the payment will be £203.40, offering vital support as energy prices rise again this winter.
Payment Amounts for 2025
The Pension Age Winter Heating Payment (PAWHP) replaces the previous UK Winter Fuel Payment scheme in Scotland. The 2025 payment rates are:
| Age Group / Living Situation | Payment Amount |
|---|---|
| Pensioners aged 66–79 (born between Sep 22, 1945 – Sep 21, 1959) | £203.40 |
| Pensioners aged 80 and over (born before Sep 22, 1945) | £305.10 |
| Pensioners in residential care homes | £101.70 |
Payments will be sent automatically into the same bank account as State Pension or Social Security Scotland benefits, with the reference Pension Age Winter Heating Payment “PAWHP”.
Eligibility Rules and Qualifying Week
To receive the £203.40 payment, you must:
- Be aged 66 to 79 on September 21, 2025
- Have been born on or before September 21, 1959
- Live in Scotland on at least the last day of the qualifying week
- Be present in Scotland during the qualifying week (15–21 September 2025)
You will not qualify if you:
- Were in hospital for the whole qualifying week and the previous 52 weeks
- Were in custody for the whole qualifying week
- Are subject to immigration control and not allowed public funds
Note: People living in residential care homes can still qualify but at a reduced rate if they meet the criteria.
How to Use the Online Checker
Social Security Scotland has launched an online eligibility checker on MYGOV.SCOT to help pensioners confirm if they will receive the payment.
You will need to enter details about:
- Your age
- The age of anyone you live with
- Whether you live in residential care
- Whether you receive benefits such as Pension Credit, Income-based JSA, ESA, Income Support, or Universal Credit
This tool will also tell you the exact amount you are likely to receive.
Opting Out and Tax Rules
While most people will receive the payment automatically, some can choose to opt out.
- If you earn more than £35,000 in taxable income, the payment will be reclaimed through the Self Assessment tax system during 2026/27.
- Anyone who does not wish to receive it can opt out via the MyGov website by October 10, 2025.
- If you opt out now but later want to rejoin, you must call Social Security Scotland to opt back in.
Why This Support Matters
This support arrives as energy bills in Scotland are set to rise during winter 2025, putting pressure on older households with fixed incomes.
According to Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville, the scheme will be a “valuable lifeline” for older Scots:
“At least 880,000 pensioners in Scotland are estimated to benefit. We are committed to ensuring older people get the financial help they need, this winter or any winter.”
The government aims to provide stability, dignity, and fairness while targeting support to those most at risk of fuel poverty.
The £203.40 Pension Age Winter Heating Payment for people aged 66–79 in Scotland will give much-needed relief to hundreds of thousands of older residents as they head into the cold months of November 2025.
With the qualifying week set for 15–21 September 2025, eligible pensioners should check their status using the online tool and ensure their details are up to date.
This automatic winter boost can help protect health and comfort during harsh weather, ensuring older Scots can heat their homes without financial stress.
FAQs
When will the £203.40 heating payment be made?
Payments will begin from November 2025, directly into bank accounts of eligible pensioners.
Who qualifies for the £203.40 rate?
Those aged 66–79 on September 21, 2025 and living in Scotland qualify for this rate.
Do I need to apply for the payment?
Most people do not need to apply. It is paid automatically unless you have deferred your State Pension or meet special circumstances.
