Winter Fuel Payment 2026/27: What You Need to Know

As energy bills remain high for the sixth year in a row and the colder months approach, the Winter Fuel Payment continues to be a vital lifeline for pensioners across the UK. Last year, we saw a record number of people visit our blog to check their eligibility, and as experts in home energy, we know it’s still a concern for many this year. However, things are looking much more positive this time around.

In this blog, we have broken down what we know so far about the Winter Fuel Payment for 2026 including who’s eligible, how much you might get, and when to expect it. We’ve also included details about the LEAP service, which can give you extra help with managing your home energy and staying warm this winter.

What Is the Winter Fuel Payment?

The Winter Fuel Payment is a government scheme designed to help pensioners cover their energy bills during the colder months. It’s usually paid automatically and can be worth between £100 and £300 depending on your age and circumstances.

What’s New for Winter 2026/27?

Just as last year, the government has granted the payment to all pensioners in England and Wales with a taxable income of £35,000 or less. That means over 9 million people could benefit from a one-off payment of £200 or £300.

If you live in Scotland or Northern Ireland, the rules may be different. Please check your local government’s website for details.

BE AWARE OF SCAMS

You don’t need to apply or do anything. The payment is made automatically. Please be cautious of scams asking you to “apply” or share personal information online or by phone.

Who Is Eligible and When Will You Get It?

To qualify in England or Wales, you must:

• Be born on or before 27th June 1960
• Have a taxable income of £35,000 or less

If you qualify, you’ll receive a letter in October or November 2026, confirming the amount. Payments will be made in November or December, directly into your bank account.

If you don’t receive a letter in the post by November, but you think you’re eligible, check if you need to make a claim here.

How Much Will You Get?

Living Situation	Date of Birth	Amount
You live alone, or nobody you live with is eligible	28 September 1946 – 27 June 1960	£200
	Before 28 September 1946	£300
You live with another eligible person and neither of you receives the qualifying benefits listed below	Both born 28 September 1946 – 27 June 1960	£100 each
	You were born 28 September 1946 – 27 June 1960 and the other person was born before 28 September 1946	£100 for you
	You were born before 28 September 1946 and the other person was born 28 September 1946 – 27 June 1960	£200 for you
	Both born before 28 September 1946	£150 each
You and your partner jointly claim Pension Credit, Universal Credit or income-related ESA	Both born 28 September 1946 – 27 June 1960	£200 per household
	One or both born before 28 September 1946	£300 per household
You receive one of those benefits, but not as part of a joint claim	28 September 1946 – 27 June 1960	£200
	Before 28 September 1946	£300
You live in a care home and are eligible	28 September 1946 – 27 June 1960	£100
	Before 28 September 1946	£150

What If Your Income Is Over £35,000?

HMRC will take your Winter Fuel Payment back by either:

• adding the amount to your Self Assessment tax return
• changing your tax code

Get Your Home Ready For Winter

How Can We Help You?

If you’re struggling with your energy costs, the LEAP (Local Energy Advice Partnership) service could help. If you qualify for the Winter Fuel Payment this year, there’s a good chance you’re also eligible for a free home energy visit. And if you receive Pension Guarantee Credit or Pension Savings Credit, you’re also very likely to qualify for LEAP’s free support.

LEAP is a completely free home energy support service designed to help pensioners and older residents stay warm, comfortable, and in control of their energy bills.

If you’re eligible, one of our friendly Home Energy Advisors will visit you at home to carry out a full energy check. They’ll offer easy, practical advice on how to save energy and may fit helpful items straight away like LED lightbulbs, radiator panels, or draught-proofing – all at no cost to you.

LEAP can also help you:

• Switch to a cheaper energy tariff
• Access other support schemes and local services
• Understand how to use your heating and appliances more efficiently
• Check if you’re eligible for the Winter Fuel Payment

Many people who use LEAP save hundreds of pounds a year, and most importantly, feel more confident and comfortable in their homes.

What Other Support Could You Be Entitled To?

The Winter Fuel Payment isn’t the only help available with energy costs. From free energy advice and home energy visits to grants and practical support, there are other schemes that could help households prepare for the colder months.