The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed the exact details of the Winter Fuel Payment rates and the birth dates of those eligible for the £200 to £300 boost, which will begin in October. The payments cover the winter period from 2026 to 2027.
Eligibility Criteria
The DWP stated: “If you were born before 28 June, 1960, you could get between £100 and £300 to help you pay your heating bills for winter 2026 to 2027. This is known as a ‘Winter Fuel Payment’.”
“You can get a Winter Fuel Payment if you were born on or before 27 June, 1960, and live in England or Wales.”
Those eligible will receive a letter in October or November detailing the amount they will receive. The payment amount is based on the individual’s birth date and circumstances during the qualifying week of 21 to 27 September, 2026. The payment does not affect other benefits.
Who Is Not Eligible?
The DWP clarified that the following groups will not qualify:
- Individuals living outside England and Wales
- Those in hospital receiving free treatment for the entire week of 21 to 27 September, 2026, and the previous year
- People needing permission to enter the UK whose granted leave states they cannot claim public funds
- Individuals in prison for the entire week of 21 to 27 September, 2026
Income Threshold and Tax Implications
One catch is that if your income exceeds £35,000 per year, including the state pension, you will not be eligible to keep the payment and must return it to HMRC through tax adjustments. The DWP notes: “If your income is over £35,000, HMRC will take your Winter Fuel Payment back by either changing your tax code or adding the amount to your Self Assessment tax return.”
Beware of Scammers
Accountancy firm Robson Laidler warns: “HMRC claim to have removed a total of 4,600 websites linked to Winter Fuel payment claims (June 2025). Please be aware that these scammers can be very convincing and are illegal. Winter Fuel Allowance payments are made automatically by HMRC, and any amount to be repaid will be taken via the tax system. Any queries should always be completed through a trusted advisor or your accountant, or directly through the government website gov.uk, which is free to use.”
