The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that automatic Winter Fuel Payments will be issued to eligible state pensioners later this year. If you were born before 28 June 1960, you may receive a bonus payment ranging from £100 to £300 aimed at assisting with heating bills for the winter of 2026-2027.
Eligible pensioners can expect to receive a notification letter in October or November detailing the payment amount. Most payments will be made throughout November and December 2026.
It is important to note that if your total annual income exceeds £35,000, HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) will reclaim the Winter Fuel Payment. Your partner’s income is not included in this calculation.
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The DWP also issues a strong warning about potential scams: be wary of unsolicited calls, emails, or messages that pretend to be from government services asking for personal information such as bank details or passwords.
Payment amounts vary depending on your birth date, living arrangements, and whether you receive certain benefits:
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If you live alone or with others not eligible for the payment, you could receive:
- £300 if born before 28 September 1946
- £200 if born between 28 September 1946 and 27 June 1960
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If you live with another eligible person, the payment depends on benefits you or your partner receive:
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For recipients of Pension Credit, Universal Credit, or income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA):
- £300 if either you or your partner was born before 28 September 1946
- £200 if both were born between 28 September 1946 and 27 June 1960
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For those not receiving these benefits, payments may be:
- £100 if both you and your housemate were born between 28 September 1946 and 27 June 1960
- £200 if you were born before 28 September 1946 and your housemate was born between 28 September 1946 and 27 June 1960
- £150 if both you and your housemate were born before 28 September 1946
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If you and your partner jointly claim one of the qualifying benefits, one of you will receive either £200 or £300 depending on birth dates as noted above.
If you believe you are eligible, watch for communication from the DWP this autumn to confirm your payment details.