Good news is coming for pensioners across England and Wales this winter. The UK Government has announced that millions of people will automatically receive the Winter Fuel Payment of either £200 or £300 to help cover heating costs.
But not everyone will get this money without taking action. A BBC expert recently explained who needs to apply and what steps you might need to take.
What Is the Winter Fuel Payment?
The Winter Fuel Payment is a financial support given to older people to help with heating bills during the colder months.
For the 2025–2026 winter, the payment will be either £200 or £300, depending on your age and circumstances. This payment is usually sent out automatically in November or December.
Who Will Get the Payment Automatically?
Most pensioners will receive this payment without needing to apply. According to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), if you were born before 22 September 1959, you are eligible for the Winter Fuel Payment. Also, if your total income is below £35,000, you will keep the full payment.
BBC Cost of Living reporter Colletta Smith explained that the payment “will just pop into your bank account” if you qualify. You don’t need to fill out any forms or apply.
Who Might Need to Apply or Update Their Details?
Even if you are eligible, there are three main groups of people who might need to take action:
- If you have deferred your State Pension – You may not be on the system to get automatic payments.
- If you’ve recently returned to the UK after living abroad – You should check if your details are up to date.
- If you haven’t received the payment before – First-time eligible individuals may need to inform the DWP.
If you fall into any of these groups, it’s a good idea to contact the government to make sure you receive your money on time.
What Happens If You Earn Over £35,000?
If your total annual income is over £35,000, you can still receive the Winter Fuel Payment, but there’s a catch. The payment amount will be recovered later through HMRC, most likely by adjusting the tax on your pension.
You also have the option to opt out of receiving the payment. If you prefer not to receive it because you’d have to pay it back anyway, you can tick a box to stop the money from being sent to you.
Important Dates to Remember
The qualifying week for the 2025 Winter Fuel Payment is between 15th and 21st September 2025. If your birthday is on or before 21 September 1959, and you have become a state pensioner by that week, you are eligible for the payment.
The Winter Fuel Payment is a helpful boost for many pensioners during the cold months. Most will receive it automatically, but some need to update their details or check eligibility based on income or changes in personal status.
If you think you’re eligible and don’t receive anything by the end of the year, reach out to the DWP to make sure your payment is on its way.
FAQs
Who is eligible for the £300 Winter Fuel Payment in 2025?
Anyone born before 22 September 1959 and earning less than £35,000 annually will receive the payment automatically.
Do I need to apply for the Winter Fuel Payment?
Most people don’t need to apply. But if you’ve deferred your pension, returned from abroad, or are newly eligible, you might need to update your details.
What happens if I earn more than £35,000?
You’ll still receive the payment, but the amount will be recovered later through HMRC by adjusting your taxes.
When will the Winter Fuel Payment be made?
Payments will be made automatically in November and December 2025.
