Here’s When You Get Your Winter Fuel Payment Each Year

A Complete Guide for UK Pensioners in 2025–2026

With energy bills remaining a significant concern for households across the UK, especially among pensioners, the Winter Fuel Payment continues to be a key form of government assistance during the colder months. It helps millions of people heat their homes without added financial pressure. But every year, one question arises:
“What month do I get my Winter Fuel Payment?”

In this guide, we explain not just the when, but also the how, who qualifies, what to expect, and what to do if your payment is late — all updated for the 2025–2026 winter season.

What Is the Winter Fuel Payment?

The Winter Fuel Payment is an annual, non-taxable benefit provided by the UK government to help older residents manage their energy bills during the winter period. It’s especially important for those on a fixed income or relying on the State Pension, as it ensures they can afford to keep their homes adequately heated.

Unlike many other benefits, the Winter Fuel Payment is not means-tested, which means you can receive it regardless of your income or savings. This makes it a lifeline for many older people who might not qualify for other forms of support but still struggle with seasonal costs.

The goal is simple: to combat fuel poverty, reduce winter-related health risks, and offer peace of mind during one of the most financially challenging times of the year.

So, What Month Do I Get My Winter Fuel Payment?

Main Payment Window: November to December

Historically, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) begins sending out Winter Fuel Payments during early to mid-November each year, continuing through mid-December. This schedule gives most recipients ample time to prepare for the rising energy demands of winter.

For winter 2025–26, official DWP guidance confirms that payments will begin being disbursed from the week of 10 November 2025. Most people who are eligible and whose details are up-to-date can expect to receive their payment by 18 December 2025.

If your personal circumstances have recently changed—such as a new address, change in bank account, or a newly awarded benefit—you might experience a slight delay. In some exceptional cases, the payment may not arrive until January 2026.

Latest Cut-Off: Mid-January

If your payment has not arrived by 15 January 2026, and you believe you’re eligible, it’s important to take action. The DWP advises that delays are rare, but they can happen due to incorrect or outdated records, especially if you’ve recently reached the qualifying age or returned to the UK from abroad.

Who Qualifies for the Winter Fuel Payment in 2025–2026?

Eligibility depends primarily on your age, residency status, and whether you’re receiving certain benefits during a specific period known as the “qualifying week.”

To qualify for the payment for winter 2025–26, you must:

• Be born on or before 22 September 1959.
• Have been living in the UK (or an eligible European Economic Area country) during the week of 15 to 21 September 2025.

If you receive one or more of the following, you’re typically eligible:

• State Pension
• Pension Credit
• Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
• Attendance Allowance
• Carer’s Allowance
• Certain types of Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)

People who deferred their State Pension or moved abroad may still be eligible, but they often need to make a manual claim, as their payment is not processed automatically.

In addition, those who live in a care home may also be eligible, though the amount they receive can vary based on whether they receive income-related benefits.

How Much Will You Get?

The exact amount of the Winter Fuel Payment depends on your age, your household situation, and whether you live in a care home.

Payment Breakdown (Winter 2025–26):

If you’re living with another eligible person, the payment is usually split between you. However, if your partner does not qualify (e.g., they are under age or not receiving a qualifying benefit), you may receive the full payment.

Also worth noting: in previous years, an additional Pensioner Cost of Living Payment was added to the Winter Fuel Payment, boosting it by up to £300. As of June 2025, no announcement has yet been made about a similar top-up for the 2025–26 winter, but it remains a possibility.

How Will You Receive It?

For most recipients, the process is automatic. The payment is deposited directly into the same account you receive your State Pension or benefits in.

You will also receive a letter—usually in October or early November—which will tell you:

• The amount you’re going to receive
• The approximate date of payment
• The bank or building society account where it will be paid

Make sure to read this letter carefully. If your payment details have changed recently and are incorrect in the letter, contact the DWP as soon as possible to prevent delays.

Do You Need to Apply?

Most people do not need to apply, especially if they received the payment in the previous year and their circumstances have remained the same.

However, you must apply if:

• You’ve never received the Winter Fuel Payment before.
• You deferred your State Pension and do not receive any other qualifying benefits.
• You live abroad in a qualifying country.

You can submit a claim by phone or by post, and claim forms will be available on GOV.UK starting in October 2025. The deadline to submit a claim for winter 2025–26 is 31 March 2026.

Make sure you have your National Insurance number, bank details, and address information ready before applying.

What If You Don’t Get Paid?

If the payment hasn’t arrived by 15 January 2026, and you think you should have received it, take these steps:

1. Check the confirmation letter to see if the information matches your current details.
2. Confirm that you meet all eligibility requirements for the current winter season.
3. Contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre directly:
   • Phone: 0800 731 0160
   • Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 8am–6pm

Have your National Insurance number and bank details on hand when you call, to speed up the process.

It’s also a good idea to check whether your payment might have been delayed due to other circumstances—like a recent benefit change, name change, or if you’re new to the system.

Can I Get Other Help With Heating Costs?

Yes, the Winter Fuel Payment is not the only support available. Depending on your circumstances, you might also qualify for:

• Cold Weather Payment
  Automatic payments of £25 during each 7-day period when the temperature falls below 0°C in your area.
• Warm Home Discount
  A £150 discount on your electricity bill if you’re on Pension Credit or meet your supplier’s low-income criteria.
• Household Support Fund
  Emergency support offered by your local council to help with heating, food, and other essentials.
• Priority Services Register
  A free service that offers additional support during power cuts or meter issues for vulnerable customers.

It’s worth checking with your local council and energy provider to see what other help may be available.

Summary: Key Winter Fuel Payment Facts (2025–26)

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been wondering, “what month do I get my Winter Fuel Payment?”, you now know the answer: typically between November and December, with most people receiving their payment by mid-December 2025.

However, knowing the month is just part of the picture. To truly benefit, make sure you’re aware of your eligibility, understand the payment structure, keep your records updated, and take action quickly if the payment doesn’t arrive.

In an era of rising energy prices and uncertain weather, the Winter Fuel Payment offers not just financial relief but also essential peace of mind. If you or someone you know qualifies, staying informed can make a real difference.