The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that Winter Fuel Payments will be made from mid-November 2026, with most eligible households receiving between £100 and £300 automatically.
The payment is designed to ease the pressure of higher energy bills during the colder months. Anyone who has reached State Pension age can receive it, and a letter will be sent by post confirming the amount for those who qualify.
Who is eligible and how much you can get
A Winter Fuel Payment ranges between £100 and £300 per household. The higher amount is paid to people aged 80 or over. The exact sum depends on when you were born and your circumstances during Qualifying Week, which runs from September 21 to 27, 2026.
You may receive a payment if you were born on or before June 27, 1960, or if you lived in England or Wales during Qualifying Week. Any money received will not affect other benefits.
How payments are made
Most eligible people will be paid automatically without needing to make a claim. However, you will need to claim if you have deferred your State Pension and do not receive another DWP benefit.
The DWP has confirmed the payment schedule, with funds expected to land in bank accounts from mid-November 2026.
