Nine million elderly individuals are set to receive assistance with their winter heating expenses starting in November. The Department of Work and Pensions has revealed further details regarding the Winter Fuel Payments scheme for this year following a significant policy reversal by the government in response to widespread criticism.
The government has announced that approximately 80% of pensioners in England and Wales will now be eligible for support. Eligible individuals will be notified via a letter in October or November specifying their entitlement, which will amount to either £200 or £300 per household. Most recipients can anticipate receiving the payment automatically in November or December.
It is crucial to emphasize the automatic nature of the process to avoid falling victim to unscrupulous scammers offering false claims assistance. No application is required for the Winter Fuel Payment.
In case the Winter Fuel Payment is not received by January of the following year, a claim can be made until March 31, 2026. To inquire or make a claim, individuals can contact the Winter Fuel Payment helpline at 0800 731 0160.
While all pensioners are entitled to the payment, those with an annual income exceeding £35,000 will have the amount deducted. Individuals surpassing this threshold have the option to decline the payment by the September 15 deadline; otherwise, the sum will be reclaimed through the tax system.
For pensioners under the PAYE system, including active workers and private pension recipients, HMRC will collect the payment through adjustments to their tax code. However, if they have already submitted a self-assessment tax return, the payment will be automatically included in their income declaration starting from the tax year 2025 to 2026, due by January 31, 2027.
To qualify for the winter fuel payment, at least one member of the household must have been born before September 22, 1959, and reside in England or Wales. Individuals above State Pension age could receive £200, while those over 80 could be eligible for £300, both amounts being per household.
If a household member receives Pension Credit, Universal Credit, or income-related Employment and Support Allowance, the entire winter fuel payment will be made to one individual. The payment is household-based, and if an individual’s income surpasses £35,000, only the portion exceeding the threshold will be reclaimed.
For instance, if a couple both aged over 80 have differing incomes, only the higher earner will forfeit a portion of the payment. Pensions Minister Torsten Bell affirmed the government’s commitment to supporting pensioners, highlighting the increase in the yearly state pension by £1,900 during this parliamentary term.
