Pensioners to get up to £600 Winter Fuel Payment this year

Older people living across the UK will receive between £250 and £600 in the coming months as the Government Winter Fuel Payments kick in.

The payment – also known as the Winter Fuel Allowance – is available to people living in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland to support with heating costs during the colder months. The actual amount people receive will depend on their own individual circumstances.

Who is eligible?

Essentially, you are eligible if you have reached State Pension age. But as that’s different for men and women, you will definitely be eligible if you were born before 25 September 1957.

How much will I get?

The exact amount you will receive depends on your individual circumstances during a qualifying week – this year, that week is 18-24 September 2023.

It all depends on exactly how old you are, who you live with and what other benefits you receive.

This year it will include an extra Pensioner Cost of Living Payment, which will be between £150 and £300, again dependent on your circumstances.

For more information go to the Government Winter Fuel Payment web page.

The money is tax-free and doesn’t affect any other benefit payments you may get.

Who isn’t eligible?

Some people won’t be eligible for the payment, including people who have been in hospital receiving free treatment for more than a year, were in prison during the whole of the qualifying week or those who need permission to enter the UK and your granted leave says you cannot claim public funds.

How to get the payment

If you are eligible, you should get a letter in October or November explaining everything, including how much you’ll receive. You don’t need to apply.

The payment is usually paid directly into your bank or building society account in November or December, so you should have it in time for Christmas.

If you think you are eligible, but don’t receive a letter, you can call the government’s helpline on 0800 731 0160 to find out more.

If you are struggling with your energy bills, take a look at our Bounce Back Checklist to see how we might be able to help.

Alternatively, click here to find local money and energy advice.