- 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. There is no single payment date and payments will be made in stages, with some pensioners already receiving their payments.
- 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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