Overview

• Eligibility is set by the qualifying week of 15–21 September 2025 for those born before 22 September 1959, with payments between £100 and £300 depending on age and circumstances.
• HMRC will recover the full payment from people with taxable income above £35,000 via PAYE tax-code changes for 2026–27 or through 2025–26 Self Assessment, following an opt-out deadline of 15 September.
• Most recipients need take no action, while people not receiving DWP benefits or those specifically asked to apply must submit a claim form by post now or by phone from 13 October, with a final deadline of 31 March 2026.
• Exclusions cover those outside England and Wales, people in hospital or prison for the entire qualifying week, and cases restricted from public funds, while Scotland pays a separate Pension Age Winter Heating Payment and Northern Ireland runs its own scheme.
• Consumer experts highlight a sharp ‘cliff edge’ at £35,000, noting that taxable benefits and non‑ISA investment income can tip claimants over the limit, and officials warn pensioners to ignore unsolicited messages linking to unofficial application pages.