Winter Fuel Payment 2026: payment dates, how much you get and the £35,000 rule

Updated 7 Nov 2026, 07:00 · First published 7 Nov 2026

Winter Fuel Payments for 2026/27 are now being paid to pensioners across England and Wales. Here is when the money will arrive, how much you will get, and what happens if you earn more than £35,000.

When will I get my Winter Fuel Payment?

Most people do not need to do anything. The payment goes automatically into the same bank account as your State Pension or other benefits, and you should receive a letter telling you how much you will get. Payments are made during November and December.

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If nothing has arrived by 27 January 2027 and you think you qualify, contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre.

How much is the Winter Fuel Payment?

For people living alone, it is £200 if you were born between 28 September 1946 and 27 June 1960, and £300 if you were born before 28 September 1946. Amounts can be different if you live with someone else, if either of you receives Pension Credit, Universal Credit or income-related ESA, or if you live in a care home.

The £35,000 rule

Everyone of State Pension age gets the payment, but if your individual taxable income is above £35,000, HMRC takes the full amount back through your tax code or Self Assessment. It is based on your own income, not your household’s.

The window to opt out of this winter’s payment closed on 20 September 2026. Opting out for 2027/28 opens on 21 December 2026.

Do I need to claim?

Usually not. You only need to claim if you have deferred your State Pension and do not get any other qualifying benefit. People in Scotland get the separate Pension Age Winter Heating Payment instead.

Scam warning: the Winter Fuel Payment is paid automatically. You will never be asked to “apply” by text, email or phone, or to give your bank details to receive it. Any message asking you to do so is a scam.