Most payments will be scheduled for November or December 2026 and will be automatically sent
As the temperature begins to drop and autumn gets into full swing many of us will inevitably be reaching for the thermostat. Heating your home can be expensive, particularly as the colder months draw closer and the need for it increases.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) provides assistance through the Winter Fuel Payment to eligible households. If you were born on or before June 27, 1960, you could receive between £100 and £300 to help cover your heating bills for winter 2026 to 2027.
The majority of eligible recipients will receive the Winter Fuel Payment automatically. There is, however, an income threshold in which HMRC can reclaim your Winter Fuel Payment if you meet it.
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What is the income threshold for Winter Fuel Payment?
If your annual income exceeds £35,000, HMRC will reclaim your Winter Fuel Payment. You can check whether your income surpasses this threshold here.
When will I receive it?
HMRC states that if you are eligible, you will receive a letter in October or November confirming the amount you are due to receive.
The majority of eligible recipients will be paid in November or December 2026.
Who is eligible?
You can receive a Winter Fuel Payment if you were born on or before June 27, 1960, and reside in Wales or England.
You will not be eligible if you:
- were visiting England, Wales or Northern Ireland on September 21-27, 2026, (the ‘qualifying week’) but usually live somewhere else
- were in hospital getting free treatment for the whole of the week of September 21-27, 2026, and the year before that
- need permission to enter the UK and your granted leave says that you cannot claim public funds
- were in prison for the whole of the week of September 21-27, 2026
You can receive a Winter Fuel Payment if you live in a care home. You will not be eligible if both of the following apply:
- you get Universal Credit, Pension Credit or income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- you lived in a care home for the whole time from June 29, 2026, or earlier
How much will I get?
If you are eligible you will receive a letter in October or November confirming the amount of Winter Fuel Payment you will be entitled to. Should you not receive a letter but believe you qualify, check whether you need to submit a claim.
The sum you receive is determined by your date of birth and your personal circumstances during the period of September 21-27, 2026. This is referred to as the ‘qualifying week’.
Any payment you receive will have no bearing on your other benefits.
Further details can be found on the UK Government’s website.
