DWP confirms Winter Fuel Payment amount and dates for pensioners | Personal Finance | Finance

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed 9 million Britons born on or before September 22, 1959, will receive payments of between £100 and £300 to help cover higher heating bills during winter. Those eligible for Winter Fuel Payments can expect automatic deposits in either November or December. In an update, GOV.UK confirmed that correspondence detailing exact payment amounts will reach recipients in October and November. The qualifying period for the payment, which is determined by age and household circumstances, is September 15-21.

However, it’s important for older people in Scotland to be aware that they will not receive a Winter Fuel Payment as this has now been replaced by Pension Age Winter Heating Payment. This follows similar eligibility criteria to DWP, but will be issued automatically by Social Security Scotland on November 30. Eligible candidates for the Winter Fuel Payment include those born on or before September 22, 1959, residing in England or Wales.

The DWP said: “You’ll get a letter in October or November telling you how much Winter Fuel Payment you’ll get, if you’re eligible.”

The department added: “If you do not get a letter but think you’re eligible, check if you need to make a claim.”

Receipients are being urged to stay vigilant, as fraudsters may attempt to deceive you into making a claim via text message, who will urge you to click on a link. This is not an official DWP communication and should be disregarded.

If you believe you need to make a claim, adhere to the instructions provided on GOV.UK.

The sum you receive depends on your date of birth and your circumstances during the ‘qualifying week’ from September 15 to 21 2025. Any funds received will not impact your other benefits.

If you cohabit with someone else eligible for the Winter Fuel Payment, your payment may vary if you are in receipt of certain benefits.

If you and your partner jointly claim any of the benefits, one of you will receive a payment of either. The funds will be deposited into the bank account where your benefits are typically paid.

If your income exceeds £35,000, HMRC will reclaim all of your Winter Fuel Payment through either PAYE or your Self-Assessment tax return.

Regarding payment dates, the DWP has stated that most payments will be automatically made in November or December.

For those considering opting out of the Winter Fuel Payment, it’s important to note that you must inform the Winter Fuel Payment Centre before September 15, 2025.

The GOV.UK website provides comprehensive information regarding the necessary steps before contacting the Winter Fuel Payment Centre.