The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will be sending letters to state pensioners regarding £300 and £200 payments this year.
This support is part of the winter fuel payment, available to eligible pensioners in England and Wales who were born before 28 June 1960. For the 2026/27 tax year, the DWP has confirmed updated eligibility rules.
Payments will be issued in November or December to help pensioner households with winter heating costs. The exact amount will depend on your date of birth and circumstances during the qualifying week (21–27 September 2026).
Pensioners living alone may receive either £200 (born between 28 September 1946 and 27 June 1960) or £300 (born before 28 September 1946).
If you live with another eligible person, your payment amount may vary depending on benefits such as Pension Credit, Universal Credit, or income-related ESA.
Eligible pensioners will receive a letter in October or November confirming their payment. Most payments will be made before January 2027.
The DWP stated: “You’ll get a letter in October or November telling you how much winter fuel payment you’ll get, if you’re eligible. If you do not get a letter but think you qualify, you should check if a claim is needed.”
The payment amount is based on birth date and circumstances during the qualifying week. It will not affect other benefits.
If your income is over £35,000, HMRC may recover the payment through tax adjustments or Self Assessment.
Automatic payments are usually made if you receive any of the following: State Pension, Pension Credit, Universal Credit, Attendance Allowance, PIP, Carer’s Allowance, DLA, ESA, War Pensions Scheme awards, Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit, Incapacity Benefit, or Industrial Death Benefit.
