Overview
- The qualifying week runs from September 15 to 21 and covers everyone born before September 22, 1959, fixing both entitlement and the amount for 2025–26.
- Pensioners with taxable income above £35,000 will have the payment reclaimed by HMRC through PAYE or Self Assessment unless they have opted out.
- The opt‑out deadline for England and Wales passed at 6pm on September 15, while Scotland’s online opt‑out remains open until October 10 via MyGov.
- DWP letters setting out amounts are due in October and November, with most payments made automatically in November and December to the usual bank account.
- Awards vary by age and household: £100, £200 or £300 in England and Wales, different set amounts in Scotland, and special care‑home rules can reduce or remove payments based on a three‑month residency test and certain benefits.