The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that nine million pensioners will receive the winter fuel payment this year, following a U-turn by Chancellor Rachel Reeves. Eligible individuals, born before September 22, 1959, and living in England or Wales, will receive between £100 and £300 to help with heating costs.
However, the DWP has outlined five groups who will not receive the payment, even if they meet the age criteria of 66 or older. These include pensioners with an income exceeding £35,000 for the 2025/26 tax year, whose payment will be clawed back through tax code adjustments or self-assessment returns. Additionally, care home residents who receive Pension Credit or certain benefits and whose care home fees are paid by the local authority are excluded.
Other groups not eligible include those who already receive certain means-tested benefits that cover heating costs, individuals living abroad in countries with warmer climates, and those who fail to apply by the deadline. The DWP will send letters in October or November informing eligible pensioners of their payment amount, with most payments made in November or December.
Pensioners in Northern Ireland may receive a similar payment from the Northern Ireland Executive, while those in Scotland are eligible for the pension age winter heating payment instead. The DWP warns against scams and advises never to share personal details.
