Pensioners Warned of Winter Fuel Payment Clawback
Millions of state pensioners across the UK have been issued a stark warning that HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) will be contacting them about repaying Winter Fuel Payments. The government has confirmed that pensioners with an income exceeding £35,000 who received the payment may be required to pay it back.
How and When Repayments Will Work
The repayment process is set to be largely automatic for those affected. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has outlined that the money will be reclaimed in one of two ways: either automatically through tax codes starting in April 2026, or via the tax return for the 2025/26 financial year.
The current Labour government has sought to reassure pensioners, stating, "They do not need to do anything - HMRC will be in touch." For the vast majority of eligible pensioners, the Winter Fuel Allowance itself is still expected to arrive in bank accounts by mid-December.
Support and Scam Warnings
Pensioners with questions about their eligibility, or those who do not receive a payment by 28 January 2026, are being urged to contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre directly on 0800 731 0160.
In a separate statement, the government reiterated its commitment to pensioner welfare, highlighting the Triple Lock and other support mechanisms like Pension Credit and Attendance Allowance.
However, officials have also issued a critical warning about fraud. Jonathan Silvester, HMRC's Digital Defence Lead, urged the public to stay vigilant. "Scammers target people by attempting to take your money or access your personal information," he said. He advised never to be rushed by unsolicited contacts and to report any suspicious HMRC-related activity via the official GOV.UK website.
