The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed the Winter Fuel Payment for winter 2026 to 2027, offering up to £300 to people born before 27 June 1960. The payment comes as energy bills are expected to rise by 4% in October, with a typical annual bill projected at £1,729.
Eligibility and payment amounts
According to the DWP, "If you were born on or before 27 June 1960 you could get between £100 and £300 to help you pay your heating bills for winter 2026 to 2027." The amount depends on your birth date and circumstances during the qualifying week of 21 to 27 September 2026.
People living alone or with no eligible cohabitant receive £200 if born between 28 September 1946 and 27 June 1960, or £300 if born before 28 September 1946. Those living with another eligible person receive varying amounts, from £100 to £200, depending on birth dates. Couples jointly claiming certain benefits get £200 or £300. Care home residents eligible for the payment receive £100 or £150.
Repayment and opt-out for high earners
Those with incomes exceeding £35,000 will still receive the payment but must repay it through tax. HMRC will take it back by changing the tax code for the 2026 to 2027 tax year or adding the amount to the 2025 to 2026 Self Assessment tax return. Individuals can opt out if they do not want the payment.
Eligibility is automatic for most people receiving State Pension, Pension Credit, Universal Credit, Attendance Allowance, Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Carer's Allowance, Disability Living Allowance (DLA), Income Support, income-related ESA, income-based JSA, or awards from the War Pensions Scheme, among others. People in Northern Ireland may be eligible from the Northern Ireland Executive; those in Scotland cannot get the payment but may qualify for the Pension Age Winter Heating payment.
Payment timeline and claims
Most payments are made automatically in November or December, with letters sent in October or November. If no letter arrives by 27 January 2027, claimants should contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre. Claims for winter 2026 to 2027 open from 21 September 2026, with the deadline for winter 2025 to 2026 having passed on 31 March 2026.
Claims can be made by post to the Winter Fuel Payment Centre, Mail Handling Site A, Wolverhampton, WV98 1LR, or by phone at 0800 731 0160 (Textphone via Relay UK on 18001 then 0800 731 0160), Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm. The payment does not affect other benefits.
