The Winter Fuel Payment is an annual tax-free payment that supports older households with heating costs during the colder months. If you were born on or before 21 September 1959 and meet the residency criteria, you may qualify for this important winter boost. The Winter Fuel Payment is intended to help older people manage rising energy bills and stay warm throughout the winter season.
What Is the Winter Fuel Payment?
The Winter Fuel Payment is a yearly allowance provided to eligible households to help with heating expenses. For the 2025–26 period, it applies to anyone born on or before 21 September 1959. While the payment is issued upfront, people with an annual taxable income above £35,000 should be aware that it will be recovered later through the tax system.
This support helps ease the financial pressure of higher winter energy usage, especially for older homeowners and those on fixed incomes.
Am I Eligible for Winter Fuel Payment?
To qualify for the Winter Fuel Payment in 2025–26, you must:
Have been born on or before 21 September 1959
Be living in England or Wales during the qualifying week
The qualifying week for 2025 is 15–21 September, beginning on the third Monday of the month.
Most people who receive State Pension or certain eligible benefits are paid automatically without needing to apply.
How Much Winter Fuel Payment Could I Receive?
The amount you receive varies depending on your age and who you live with.
If you or your partner are over State Pension age:
£200 for most households
£300 if you or your partner are aged 80 or over
If you receive Pension Credit, Universal Credit, or income-related Employment and Support Allowance, one payment will be made per household.
If not, the payment is divided equally between qualifying adults living in the same home.
If you are 80 or older:
£300 if you live alone
£200 if you live with another qualifying adult under 80
£150 if you live with someone aged 80 or over
If you are under 80:
£200 if you live alone
£100 if you live with another qualifying adult
Winter Fuel Payment and Care Homes
If you live in a care home from 23 June to 21 September 2025 and receive Pension Credit, Universal Credit, or income-related ESA, you are not eligible for a Winter Fuel Payment.
If you live in a care home but do not receive any of these benefits, your payment will be:
£100 if you are under 80
£150 if you are 80 or older
How Do I Claim the Winter Fuel Payment?
For most people, the payment is automatic. You only need to claim if:
You have never received the payment before, and
You do not receive State Pension or other qualifying benefits
If you haven’t received your payment by January 2026, you can claim up until 31 March 2026.
When Will Winter Fuel Payments Be Paid?
If you’re eligible, the 2025 Winter Fuel Payment will be deposited directly into your bank account between November and December 2025.
