Nine million retirees will receive assistance with their winter heating expenses starting in November. The Department of Work and Pensions has unveiled additional information on the Winter Fuel Payments program for this year, following a significant reversal in eligibility criteria by the government due to widespread backlash.
Approximately 80% of elderly individuals in England and Wales will now be eligible for support. Eligible recipients will be notified via letter in October or November about the amount they will receive, ranging from £200 to £300 per household. The majority will receive the payment automatically between November and December.
It is crucial to note that there is no need to apply for the payment, as scammers may attempt to deceive individuals with false claims. If the Winter Fuel Payment is not received by January, a claim can be made before March 31, 2026, by contacting the Winter Fuel Payment helpline at 0800 731 0160.
While all pensioners are entitled to the payment, it will be reclaimed from those with incomes exceeding £35,000 annually. Individuals above this threshold can choose to opt out before the September 15 deadline; otherwise, the funds will be recouped through the tax system.
For individuals on PAYE, the payment will be collected automatically by HMRC through a tax code adjustment, unless they have already submitted a self-assessment tax return. In such cases, HMRC will include the payment in their income on their tax return starting from the 2025 to 2026 tax year, due by January 31, 2027.
To qualify for the winter fuel payment, at least one person in the household must have been born before September 22, 1959, and reside in England or Wales. Those over State Pension age can receive £200, while individuals over 80 could receive £300 per household.
Recipients of Pension Credit, Universal Credit, or income-related Employment and Support Allowance will have the entire winter fuel payment allocated to one person in the household. The payment is made on a household basis, but if an individual’s income surpasses £35,000, only their share will be recovered.
In cases where both members of a couple are over 80 but one has an income exceeding £35,000, only the higher earner will forfeit the payment, while the other will receive £150. If both are between 70 and 80 years old, the payment will be £200 per household.
Pensions minister Torsten Bell emphasized the government’s dedication to supporting retirees, highlighting that millions will benefit from a substantial increase in their state pension during this parliamentary term.
