- Over nine million pensioners are set to receive financial help with heating costs through the government’s winter fuel payment scheme this year. But who is eligible?
- The scheme, which offers between £100 and £300 for heating bills, is available for those born before or on 1960 and live in England, Wales or Northern Ireland.
- A person qualifies for the benefit if their total income is less than £35,000. For those with an income over this amount who receive the benefit, the government has said HMRC will take back the payment.
- Four other groups are also considered ineligible for the payment, including those who usually live outside England, Wales or Northern Ireland; were in hospital for a whole week in September; need permission to enter the UK and whose granted leave says they cannot claim public funds; were in prison for the whole of the week of 21 to 27 September 2026.
- Pensioners should have already received a letter informing them of how much they will get and which bank account it will be paid into. It’s usually the same account as State Pension or other benefits.
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