The Winter Fuel Payment is one of the most important benefits available to older people in the UK, offering a financial boost to help with heating costs during the coldest months.
For the 2025/26 winter season, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that postal claims are now open for certain pensioner groups, with phone claims starting from October 13, 2025.
While millions will receive the payment automatically, some individuals need to actively claim to secure their entitlement.
Who Gets the Winter Fuel Payment Automatically
Most people over State Pension age will not need to apply. If you receive benefits such as State Pension, Pension Credit, Universal Credit, Attendance Allowance, Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Disability Living Allowance (DLA), Carer’s Allowance, Income Support, income-related ESA or JSA, your payment will be made automatically.
This year, around nine million pensioners in England and Wales are expected to receive payments automatically, with a different system in place for Scotland, where the Pension Age Winter Heating Payment replaces the scheme.
Who Needs to Make a Claim
There are two main groups of pensioners who must submit a claim:
- Those who have never received a Winter Fuel Payment before.
- Those who have deferred their State Pension since their last Winter Fuel Payment.
Postal claims opened on September 15, 2025, while claims by phone will be available from October 13, 2025. The deadline to claim is March 31, 2026.
Eligibility Criteria for Winter Fuel Payment 2025
| Eligibility Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | Born on or before September 22, 1959 |
| Residency | Must live in England or Wales during the qualifying week (September 15 – 21, 2025) |
| Exclusions | Not eligible if living abroad (except in special cases), in prison, under immigration control with no public funds, or in hospital receiving free care during the entire qualifying week |
| Care Homes | Pensioners in care homes may qualify but will not receive a payment if they also claim Pension Credit, Income Support, income-based ESA, or income-based JSA for the whole period |
Payment Amounts for 2025
The amount depends on your age and household circumstances. Payments are made automatically in November or December 2025.
| Situation | Born Sept 22, 1945 – Sept 21, 1959 | Born before Sept 22, 1945 |
|---|---|---|
| Live alone / no other eligible person | £200 | £300 |
| Live with another eligible person | £100 | £150 |
| Live with someone but one partner is over 80 | — | £300 |
| Living in a care home (not on qualifying benefits) | £100 | £150 |
If your household income is above £35,000, you will still receive the Winter Fuel Payment, but it will later be recovered through your tax code or Self Assessment return.
When and How You Will Be Paid
- Payments will usually arrive in November or December 2025.
- Pensioners will receive a letter in advance confirming how much they will get.
- The money will be paid into the same bank account where State Pension or other benefits are deposited.
- If you do not receive your payment by January 28, 2026, you should contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre to report it.
Scam Warnings for Pensioners
The DWP has warned about fraudulent messages. If you receive a text, email, or call asking you to click a link or provide your bank details to claim, it is a scam.
Official claims can only be made by post or over the phone, and legitimate payments will go directly into your bank account. Pensioners should remain vigilant and never share sensitive information through unofficial channels.
Important Dates for Winter Fuel Payment 2025
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Qualifying Week | September 15 – 21, 2025 |
| Postal Claims Open | September 15, 2025 |
| Phone Claims Open | October 13, 2025 |
| Payments Begin | November – December 2025 |
| Claim Deadline | March 31, 2026 |
The Winter Fuel Payment 2025 remains a crucial lifeline for millions of pensioners across the UK. While the majority will get it automatically, some need to act by making a postal or phone claim before March 31, 2026.
With payments ranging between £100 and £300, this support ensures older people can manage their heating costs during the coldest months.
Pensioners are encouraged to check eligibility, remain alert to scams, and ensure their details are correct to avoid delays.
FAQs
Do all pensioners automatically receive the Winter Fuel Payment?
No. While most people do, those who have never received it before or who have deferred their State Pension must apply.
How much can I expect to receive?
Depending on your age and circumstances, payments range from £100 to £300. A letter will confirm your exact entitlement.
Can I claim online?
No. Claims can only be made by post or by phone. Any messages offering an online claim link are scams.
