Most older households receive the Winter Fuel Payment automatically each year, but the Department for Work and Pensions has confirmed that two specific groups must submit a claim for winter 2026 to 2027 or they will not receive the payment. The clarification follows questions in Parliament and guidance shared by the BBC, as eligibility rules and age thresholds continue to shift.
Payment
The Winter Fuel Payment is an annual, tax free lump sum designed to help older people cover heating costs during colder months. It is usually paid between November and December and is worth between £100 and £300, depending on age and household circumstances.
For winter 2026 to 2027, payments will once again be issued automatically to most eligible people, provided their details are up to date with the DWP.
Amount
How much someone receives depends mainly on age and living arrangements.
| Circumstance | Typical Payment |
|---|---|
| Aged under 80 | £200 |
| Aged 80 or over | £300 |
| Living with another eligible person | Payment usually split |
People who live alone, or with someone who does not qualify, generally receive the full amount.
Eligibility
To qualify for the Winter Fuel Payment, a person must have reached State Pension age and be ordinarily resident in England or Wales during the qualifying week. For winter 2026 to 2027, the qualifying week runs from 21 to 27 September 2026.
Because State Pension age is rising to 67 between 2026 and 2028, eligibility is tied closely to date of birth. The government has confirmed that to qualify for winter 2026 to 2027, a person must have been born on or before 27 June 1960.
This explains why some people who expect to qualify may miss out if they are only weeks short of State Pension age during the qualifying week.
Threshold
Eligibility has been widened following a statement from Chancellor Rachel Reeves. Around 9 million additional pensioners are now covered, according to BBC reporting.
To qualify, pensioners must have an annual income of £35,000 or less. This includes income from private and workplace pensions, as long as total income remains below the threshold.
Those earning above £35,000 can still receive the payment automatically, but it will later be reclaimed through the tax system unless they opt out in advance.
Automatic
You do not need to apply for the Winter Fuel Payment if you receive any of the following benefits:
- State Pension
- Pension Credit
- Universal Credit
- Attendance Allowance
- Personal Independence Payment
- Carer’s Allowance
- Disability Living Allowance
- Income related Employment and Support Allowance
- War Pensions Scheme payments
- Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit
- Incapacity Benefit
- Industrial Death Benefit
For these groups, the payment is made automatically, usually from early November onwards.
Applications
The DWP has confirmed that two groups must apply to avoid missing out. You need to make a claim if either of the following applies:
You have never received a Winter Fuel Payment before
You have deferred your State Pension since your last Winter Fuel Payment
Claims for winter 2026 to 2027 will open from 21 September 2026. Anyone in these categories who does not apply will not receive the payment automatically.
Updates
BBC cost of living correspondent Colletta Smith has also advised some people to check that their details are current. This includes those who have recently returned from living abroad or who have deferred their State Pension.
While most eligible pensioners will not need to complete any forms, ensuring the DWP has accurate information could prevent delays or missed payments.
Context
The Winter Fuel Payment remains one of the main forms of direct seasonal support for older households. With eligibility rules tied to both age and income, small changes in personal circumstances can affect entitlement.
For winter 2026 to 2027, most people who qualify will be paid automatically. However, those who have never claimed before or who have deferred their State Pension will need to take action to ensure they receive up to £300 in support.
FAQs
Who must apply for the Winter Fuel Payment?
Those who never claimed before or deferred State Pension.
How much is the Winter Fuel Payment in 2026?
Between £200 and £300 depending on age.
What is the income limit for eligibility?
£35,000 a year or less.
When is the qualifying week for 2026?
21 to 27 September 2026.
