State pensioners born before 1946 will receive a £100 increase in their Winter Fuel Payment under the administration of Andy Burnham, the new Labour Prime Minister. Mr Burnham’s government is now responsible for managing the payments this winter.
Pensioners born before 1946 are entitled to £300, while those born after this date receive £200. The Winter Fuel Payment is a tax-free government grant designed to help eligible pensioner households cover heating costs during the colder months.
Previously, the scheme provided up to £300 each winter to all households with someone at state pension age. However, from winter 2024/25, the payment was restricted to individuals receiving Pension Credit or certain other benefits.
According to the government, “The deadline for claims for winter 2025 to 2026 was 31 March 2026. Claims for winter 2026 to 2027 will open on 21 September 2026.”
Money Saving Expert, run by Martin Lewis, explains the payment breakdown: “For a state pensioner living alone, the payment is straightforward – £200 if eligible and aged 79 or under, or £300 if 80 or over.
“For households with two pensioners, the amounts vary. If both are 80 or over, the £300 total is split evenly, with each receiving £150. Where one is 80 or over and the other under 80, the older person receives £200 and the younger £100, totaling £300.
“If both are under 80 and eligible, each person receives £100, making £200 in total. If only one person is eligible, they receive £200 if under 80 or £300 if 80 or over.”
Pension Credit recipients will receive their Winter Fuel Payment as a single lump sum without individual splits.
“The Winter Fuel Payment offers essential support to pensioners, helping them meet the increased costs of heating during winter,” says Money Saving Expert.