Pensioners are receiving a reminder from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) about the Winter Fuel Payment, which is scheduled to be paid by January 28. The DWP confirmed that the majority of eligible nine million pensioner households should have received a one-time payment of £100, £200, or £300 by the end of December for the 2025/26 Winter Fuel Payment. In Scotland, individuals over the age of 66 should have already received their Pension Age Winter Heating Payment from Social Security Scotland.
If pensioners have not received the payment by January 28, they are advised to contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre as they may need to make a claim. The funds will be deposited into bank accounts where State Pension or benefits are typically received, with the payment reference starting with the National Insurance number followed by “DWP WFP.”
Pensioners are urged to check their bank statements for the payment reference code before contacting the Winter Fuel Payment Centre at 0800 731 0160. Only pensioners born before September 22, 1959, with an income at or below £35,000, will automatically receive the Winter Fuel Payment from the DWP.
The UK Government has outlined specific categories of individuals who may need to make a claim for the Winter Fuel Payment by post or telephone before March 31, 2026. The DWP mentioned that most eligible individuals will automatically receive the payment for the qualifying week between September 15-21, 2025.
If individuals are already receiving certain benefits, they do not need to make a claim. However, those not receiving these benefits must make a claim if they meet specific criteria. Claims for the Winter Fuel Payment for the 2025/26 period must be submitted by March 31, 2026. Detailed instructions for claiming by post or phone are available on the GOV.UK website.