What is Winter Fuel Payment?
In simple terms: Winter Fuel Payment is a tax-free lump sum paid once a year to help older people pay their heating bills over winter.
How Much Can You Get? (2025/26)
| Your Situation | Amount |
|---|---|
| Born before 23 September 1958, qualify and live alone (or with non-qualifying people) | £200 |
| Born before 23 September 1958 and live with someone else who qualifies | £100 each |
| Aged 80+ on qualifying date, living alone | £300 |
| Aged 80+ and living with another qualifying person | £150 each |
The "Qualifying Week"
You must meet the eligibility criteria during the "qualifying week" (usually the third week of September). Your age is checked against this date.
Who Now Qualifies? (New Rules)
Following the 2024 changes, you can get Winter Fuel Payment if you:
(This date may change each year)
Pension Credit, Universal Credit, Income Support, Income-based JSA, Income-related ESA, or Housing Benefit
And have a connection to the UK
Pension Credit is Key
Pension Credit is now the main gateway to Winter Fuel Payment for most people. If you're on a low income as a pensioner, applying for Pension Credit could get you:
- • Up to £3,900+ per year in Pension Credit itself
- • Winter Fuel Payment (£200-£300)
- • Warm Home Discount (£150 off electricity)
- • Council Tax Reduction
- • Free TV licence (if 75+)
- • Cold Weather Payments
How Winter Fuel Payment is Paid
Automatic for Most
If you receive a qualifying benefit, the payment should be made automatically. You don't need to apply.
Paid November to December
Payments are usually made between November and December. You'll get a letter telling you how much and when.
Paid Into Your Account
It's paid into the same account as your State Pension or benefit. If you don't have State Pension, it goes to your benefits account.
What If You Don't Get It Automatically?
You may need to make a claim if you:
- •Qualify but have never received it before
- •Only receive a qualifying benefit and State Pension or retirement pension from another EEA country or Switzerland
- •Live in Switzerland or an EEA country
Call the Winter Fuel Payment helpline: 0800 731 0160
Who Doesn't Qualify
You can't get Winter Fuel Payment if you:
Key Points to Remember
- ✓Now linked to Pension Credit and other means-tested benefits
- ✓£200-£300 depending on your age and living situation
- ✓Tax-free and won't affect your other benefits
- ✓Paid automatically if you receive a qualifying benefit
- ✓Apply for Pension Credit if you might be eligible - it unlocks this payment
Related Guides
Check Your Pension Credit Eligibility
Pension Credit is now the key to Winter Fuel Payment. See if you qualify.
Use Calculator