Overview
- Payments began on November 1 and will continue through November and into December, arriving automatically for around nine million over-65s.
- Eligibility generally covers those born on or before September 22, 1959 who meet residency and other qualifying conditions.
- Under 2025 rules, all over-65s are paid initially, with HMRC later deducting the sums from recipients whose annual income exceeds £35,000, often via PAYE.
- Most people will receive between £100 and £300 depending on age, paid into the same account used for the State Pension or other benefits.
- If no letter or payment arrives by January 28, 2026, recipients should contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre on 0800 731 0160, noting different schemes in Scotland and Northern Ireland and exclusions such as full-week hospitalisation or incarceration during the September 15–21 qualifying week.