The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is reminding pensioners to claim the Winter Fuel Payment for the 2025 to 2026 season, with the deadline set for March 31, 2026. This payment is intended to assist with heating costs during the winter months, but many recipients will receive it automatically if they qualify.
Most pensioners do not need to take any action, as eligibility for the Winter Fuel Payment is automatically determined based on several benefits. Those who receive the State Pension, Pension Credit, Universal Credit, Attendance Allowance, Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Carer’s Allowance, or Disability Living Allowance (DLA) should have received the payment without needing to apply.
Individuals on Income Support, Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), or income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) are also set to receive this benefit automatically. However, if a pensioner does not claim any of these eligible benefits or has not received the Winter Fuel Payment before, they must submit a claim if they have deferred their State Pension since their last payment.
How to Claim and Confirm Payment
Pensioners can claim the Winter Fuel Payment either by post or by phone. The payment is only extended to those born before September 22, 1959 with an income at or below £35,000. For pensioners whose incomes exceed this threshold, the payment will be recouped by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC). Importantly, no registration with HMRC is necessary, and no further action is required.
Before making a claim, pensioners should have their National Insurance number, bank or building society details, and the date of marriage or civil partnership (if applicable) ready. Those uncertain about whether they have received the Winter Fuel Payment are advised to check their bank accounts for a reference beginning with their National Insurance number followed by ‘DWP WFP’.
Pensioners should scrutinize their bank statements for this reference code. If further assistance is needed, they can contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre at 0800 731 0160.
The DWP encourages all eligible pensioners to take these steps to ensure they receive the financial support they are entitled to during the colder months.
