The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed the five groups of state pensioners who will not be eligible for a Winter Fuel Payment from October, when payments for winter 2026 to 2027 begin. The DWP has detailed who qualifies, how much they will receive, and the categories of people who cannot claim, even if their earnings fall below the £35,000 limit.
Eligibility rules for winter 2026 to 2027
The Winter Fuel Payment has changed several times in recent years, moving from a universal payment for all pensioners to a strictly Pension Credit-linked benefit and back to a mostly universal payment with conditions, following policy changes and pressure from pensioners. The payment schedule for winter 2025-26 has been completed, with final payments made by the end of January. The next payment round starts in October 2026.
The DWP said: “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’.” It added: “You can get a Winter Fuel Payment if you were born on or before 27 June, 1960 and live in England or Wales.”
Qualifying week and payment details
Eligible claimants will receive a letter in October or November detailing their payment amount. The DWP states: “The amount you get is based on when you were born and your circumstances between 21 to 27 September, 2026. This is called the ‘qualifying week’.” It also notes: “Any money you get will not affect your other benefits.”
However, the DWP confirmed the five groups that will not be eligible. These are: people living outside England and Wales; those in hospital receiving free treatment for the whole week of 21 to 27 September 2026 and the year before; people who need permission to enter the UK and whose granted leave says they cannot claim public funds; and those in prison for the whole of the qualifying week. Additionally, eligibility is excluded if both of the following apply: the person receives Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Income Support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) or income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), and they lived in a care home for the entire period from 23 June 2025 or earlier.
Earnings limit and tax clawback
Another condition is that those earning more than £35,000 a year, including from the state pension, will not be able to keep the payment and must return it to HMRC as tax. The DWP explains: “If your income is over £35,000. HMRC will take your Winter Fuel Payment back by either: changing your tax code; adding the amount to your Self Assessment tax return.”
