In summary
A Winter Fuel Payment is a one-off payment to help with heating bills. For winter 2026 to 2027, you could get between £100 and £300 if you were born on or before 27 June 1960 and lived in England, Wales or Northern Ireland during the qualifying week (21 to 27 September 2026). Most people get the Winter Fuel Payment automatically if they are eligible.
Most eligible people will be paid in November or December 2026. How much you get depends on your age and who you live with. If your total income is over £35,000, HMRC will take the payment back, usually through your tax code, or you can choose to opt out. If you live in Scotland you cannot get a Winter Fuel Payment, but you might be eligible for Pension Age Winter Heating Payment. You can check the full rules on the government’s website (checked October 2026).
Regarding the fund
The Welsh Government‘s fuel support program aims to mitigate the effects of rising energy costs and the cost-of-living problem. The government is targeting low-income homes with this program and expanding the number of eligible households. The government recognises that winter might be the most challenging season. Families should not be pushed to choose between eating and keeping warm.
Am I Eligible for Winter Fuel Assistance?
If you were born on or before 27 June 1960 and lived in England, Wales or Northern Ireland during the qualifying week, you could get between £100 and £300 for winter 2026 to 2027 to help with heating costs. This is called the ‘Winter Fuel Payment’.
When you will not qualify
You are not qualified if you:
- Have been receiving free medical care for more than a year
- Require permission to enter the United Kingdom
- Your granted leave states that you cannot receive public assistance, and were incarcerated from 19 to 25 September 2022
How can I apply for winter fuel assistance?
You must submit a claim if eligible but do not receive payment automatically. You will get your winter fuel payment automatically (you do not need to claim it). You have until the end of March 2023 to apply for the reimbursement from the previous winter.
How much will I get?
The amount you will receive for the winter fuel payment will vary depending on when you were born, your benefits, and your living situation. The maximum you can claim for the winter fuel payment will be £500. This payment can be expected to be deposited into your bank account no later than January 13, 2023. If you do not receive these funds, contact the winter fuel payment center, which will be available to help you with any queries.
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