The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed it has no plans to alter the qualifying criteria for Winter Fuel Payments, following a query from a Labour MP. Beth Winter asked the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions to assess the merits of revising the eligibility date of 25 September 1956.
In a written response, DWP minister Victoria Prentis stated: “There are no plans to change the qualifying criteria for Winter Fuel Payments at this time.” She explained that the payments are age-related and made to those who have reached State Pension age, which for winter 2022/23 requires being born on or before 25 September 1956.
To qualify for this year's Winter Fuel Payment, individuals must have been born on or before 25 September 1956 and have lived in the UK for at least one day during the qualifying week of 19–25 September 2022. Those who have received the payment before do not need to reapply unless they have deferred their State Pension or moved abroad.
The DWP recently updated online guidance to help eight million pensioner households determine eligibility for a £300 cost of living payment, which will be added to the annual Winter Fuel Payment. Payments are typically made automatically in November or December, with a deadline of 13 January 2023. The £300 payment is not taxable and does not affect other benefits.
Payment amounts vary depending on circumstances, such as living alone or with a partner, and whether either receives benefits like Pension Credit or income-based Jobseeker's Allowance. The DWP has clarified these scenarios in its updated guidance.
