The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that state pensioners eligible for the Winter Fuel Payment will receive automatic bonus payments ranging from £100 to £300 in the 2026/27 tax year. This announcement brings clarity to millions of pensioners across the UK.
Payment Amounts by Age
Individuals born between September 28, 1946, and June 27, 1960, will receive £200. Those born before September 28, 1946, are entitled to £300. The payments are designed to help with heating costs during the colder months.
Eligible Benefits for Automatic Payments
The DWP has listed 12 benefits that qualify for automatic Winter Fuel Payments without the need for a separate claim. These include:
- State Pension
- Pension Credit
- Universal Credit
- Attendance Allowance
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Carer’s Allowance
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- War Pensions Scheme awards
- Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit
- Incapacity Benefit
- Industrial Death Benefit
If you do not receive any of these benefits, you may need to submit a claim if you have not received the Winter Fuel Payment before or if you have deferred your State Pension since your last payment.
Payment Process
Most payments are made automatically in November or December. Eligible individuals will receive a letter detailing the amount and the bank account into which the payment will be deposited, typically the same account used for State Pension or other benefits. If you have not received a letter or the payment by January 27, 2027, you should contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre.
Background and Changes
Previously, the scheme provided up to £300 each winter to all households with someone at state pension age. However, in winter 2024/25, it was restricted to those on Pension Credit or certain other benefits. In 2025, the Government reinstated the Winter Fuel Payment for all pensioners from winter 2025/26, though those earning over £35,000 per year will have the payment reclaimed automatically unless they opt out.
