Overview
- The Department for Work and Pensions started sending Winter Fuel Payments from mid‑November with payments made in stages through December, and its Cold Weather Payment scheme reopened on 1 November and runs to 31 March 2027.
- Eligible people are mainly those born on or before 27 June 1960 and payments range from £100 to £300 depending on age and household circumstances during the qualifying week of 21–27 September 2026; Cold Weather Payments pay £25 for each seven‑day freezing spell to people on certain benefits.
- Most recipients will be paid automatically and should get a letter in October or November showing the amount and account used; anyone missing a letter or payment should contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre by 27 January 2027.
- The DWP will reopen the opt‑out for the 2027–28 Winter Fuel Payment on 21 December 2026 and people can opt out or opt back in online via GOV.UK One Login, by phone at the DWP helpline, or by post with the Winter Fuel Payment Centre.
- HM Revenue & Customs will normally recover Winter Fuel Payments from individuals whose personal annual income exceeds £35,000 by changing their tax code or through Self Assessment, and the DWP has warned people to ignore scam texts or calls that falsely ask for details to claim the payment.