Dwp Winter Fuel Payment Pensioners

DWP Winter Fuel Payment: What Pensioners Need to Know

Eligibility criteria

The Winter Fuel Payment is a tax-free payment made by the government to help pensioners with their energy bills. To be eligible, you must:

Be receiving a state pension

Have reached the qualifying age for the state pension, which is currently 66 for both men and women

Live in the UK for at least one day during the qualifying week (the first full week of September)

How to claim

You do not need to claim the Winter Fuel Payment. It is paid automatically to eligible pensioners. If you are eligible and have not received your payment by the end of March, you should contact the Pension Service.

Amount of payment

The amount of the Winter Fuel Payment depends on your circumstances. The basic rate is £250. You may be entitled to a higher rate if you:

Are over 80 years old

Receive a disability living allowance or personal independence payment

Live in a care home

When to expect payment

The Winter Fuel Payment is usually paid between November and December. The exact date of payment will vary depending on your circumstances. If you are eligible, you should receive a letter from the Pension Service confirming the amount of your payment and the date it will be paid.

Other help with energy costs

In addition to the Winter Fuel Payment, there are other ways to get help with your energy costs if you are a pensioner. These include:

The Warm Home Discount Scheme, which provides a £140 discount on your electricity bill

The Cold Weather Payment, which is a one-off payment of £25 made when the temperature drops below zero degrees Celsius for seven consecutive days

The Energy Company Obligation, which requires energy companies to provide support to low-income and vulnerable customers

How to get help

If you need help with your energy costs, you should contact your energy supplier. They will be able to advise you on the best options for you.