Overview

• Around nine million pensioners in England and Wales will receive up to £300 this winter following the government’s policy reversal.
• Letters due in October will confirm the award amount and destination bank account, with most payments arriving in November or December.
• Eligibility is based on being born on or before 21 September 1959 and circumstances in the qualifying week of 15 to 21 September.
• Most people on the State Pension or listed DWP benefits will be paid automatically, while those not on DWP benefits or told to apply must submit a claim, with phone claims opening on 13 October.
• Payments are £200 for those under 80 and £300 for those over 80, and HMRC will recover awards from people with incomes over £35,000 via 2026–27 tax code changes or 2025–26 Self Assessment; anyone unpaid by 28 January 2026 should contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre.