Pensioner Heating Payments Schedule by Age and Household Type Starting in November

The Scottish Government has confirmed that at least 880,000 pensioners will benefit from the Pension Age Winter Heating Payment (PAWHP) in 2025. This initiative is designed to support older people with the rising costs of heating their homes during the colder months.

From November 2025, eligible individuals of State Pension age will receive a tax-free payment ranging from £101.70 to £305.10, depending on their age and household circumstances.

Payment Deductions and Opt-Out Option

• Pensioners with a taxable income above £35,000 will see the payment recovered through the Self Assessment tax system in the 2026/27 financial year.
• Those who do not wish to receive the payment can opt out by completing the official form on MyGov by October 10, 2025.
• An eligibility checker has also been introduced to help pensioners quickly determine their payment amount.

Government Statement

According to Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville, the payment will provide crucial support for pensioners, especially with energy costs increasing. She emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring dignity, fairness, and respect for older people.

Most pensioners will not need to apply, as payments will be made automatically to those eligible.

Payment Rates – General Guidance

The full breakdown is available on MYGOV.SCOT, but here is a summary:

• £101.70 – for pensioners living in residential care.
• £203.40 – for single pensioners born between 22 September 1945 and 21 September 1959.
• £305.10 – for single pensioners born before 22 September 1945.

Some groups, such as those who have deferred their State Pension or receive joint benefits, must apply before 31 March 2026.

Application Rules for Special Cases

You must apply if:

• You have deferred your State Pension.
• You are part of a joint benefit award where the main claimant is under State Pension age.

Payments will be sent to the same bank account where you receive your State Pension or other Social Security Scotland benefits, under the reference ‘PAWHP’.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for PAWHP, Social Security Scotland will assess your situation during the qualifying week: September 15–21, 2025.

You are eligible if you:

• Were born on or before September 21, 1959.
• Lived in Scotland on at least the final day of the qualifying week.

You will not be eligible if you:

• Were in hospital receiving free treatment for the entire qualifying week and the 52 weeks prior.
• Were in custody under a court sentence.
• Have immigration restrictions preventing you from claiming public funds.

Rules for Pensioners in Residential Care

You are eligible if:

• You were born on or before September 21, 1959.
• You live in Scotland.

You are not eligible if all of the following apply:

• You were in residential care for the entire qualifying week.
• You entered care before June 23, 2025.
• You were receiving Pension Credit, Income-based JSA, ESA, Income Support, or Universal Credit during the qualifying week.

Using the Online Payment Checker

The MYGOV.SCOT online tool allows you to calculate your payment based on:

• Your age.
• The age of other eligible household members.
• Whether you live in residential care.
• If you or your partner receive certain benefits.

Opting Out and Rejoining Later

If you opt out by October 10, 2025, you will not receive the payment. However, you can reapply in future years by contacting Social Security Scotland.

The Pension Age Winter Heating Payment provides essential financial relief for pensioners across Scotland, ensuring older people can manage heating costs during the winter months. With payments tailored to age and household status, the scheme balances universal support with targeted fairness. Pensioners are encouraged to review their eligibility, use the online checker, and act before deadlines if opting out or applying.

FAQs