The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that Winter Fuel Payment letters will be sent out to nearly 9 million pensioners across England and Wales next month.
These letters will inform older residents exactly how much financial support they will receive, with payments ranging from £100 to £300 depending on age, household circumstances, and benefits status.
Payments are expected to arrive automatically in November and December 2025, helping millions of households manage heating costs during the coldest months of the year.
Who Will Receive the Letters
The Winter Fuel Payment is available to those born before 22 September 1959, provided they meet residency conditions during the qualifying week of 15–21 September 2025.
Most pensioners will receive the payment automatically, particularly if they already get benefits such as:
- State Pension
- Pension Credit
- Universal Credit
- Attendance Allowance
- Carer’s Allowance
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Income Support
- Income-related ESA or JSA
- War Pensions Scheme awards
However, some individuals may need to claim—especially if they have never received the Winter Fuel Payment before, or if they deferred their State Pension since their last payment.
Payment Amounts and Eligibility
The exact payment varies depending on age, who you live with, and whether you receive certain benefits.
Living alone or with non-eligible residents:
- £200 if born between 22 September 1945 and 21 September 1959
- £300 if born before 22 September 1945
Living with someone else who is also eligible:
- £100–£200 depending on combined ages
- £150–£300 if one or both were born before 22 September 1945
Couples on joint benefit claims:
- £200 if both partners were born between 22 September 1945 and 21 September 1959
- £300 if one or both partners were born before 22 September 1945
Care home residents:
- £100 if born between 22 September 1945 and 21 September 1959
- £150 if born before 22 September 1945
Payments will be made directly into the same bank account used for State Pension or benefits.
Claiming the Winter Fuel Payment
While most people do not need to claim, there are situations where action is required.
- By post: claims open 15 September 2025
- By phone: claims open 13 October 2025
- Deadline: 31 March 2026
If you think you are eligible but do not receive a letter, you should submit a claim before the deadline to avoid missing out.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Recipients | Around 9 million pensioners in England & Wales |
| Eligibility | Born before 22 Sept 1959, lived in UK during 15–21 Sept 2025 |
| Payment Range | £100–£300, depending on age and circumstances |
| Letter Timing | October–November 2025 |
| Payment Dates | November–December 2025 |
| Claim Method | By post (from 15 Sept) or phone (from 13 Oct); deadline 31 Mar 2026 |
| Scotland Alternative | Pension Age Winter Heating Payment (£101.70–£305.10) via Social Security Scotland |
| Fraud Warning | No texts or emails—only official letters are valid |
The DWP Winter Fuel Payment is designed to provide crucial assistance for older residents across the UK during the cold winter period.
With letters set to arrive in October and November 2025 and payments between £100 and £300 landing in November and December, pensioners can look forward to extra support.
If you are eligible, keep an eye out for your letter, ensure you understand your entitlement, and take action only if required.
This payment remains one of the most significant seasonal benefits, protecting pensioners from the burden of rising heating costs.
FAQs
Who will receive the Winter Fuel Payment automatically?
Most people born before 22 September 1959 who lived in England or Wales during the qualifying week of 15–21 September 2025 will get it automatically if they already receive the State Pension or certain other benefits.
How much will pensioners get and when will payments be made?
Payments will range from £100 to £300, depending on age, household circumstances, and benefit status. Most payments will arrive in November and December 2025, with letters confirming the exact amount sent in October and November.
What should I do if I don’t get a letter or payment?
If you haven’t received a letter by late November, or if no payment is received by 28 January 2026, you should contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre to confirm your eligibility and request support.
