DWP makes major change to Winter Fuel Payment scheme from this week

The Department for Work and Pensions has announced they've updated the application system for this year's winter fuel payment this week.

There's a new application process for Winter Fuel Payments, starting this week <i>(Image: Lucy North/PA Wire)</i>

(Image: Lucy North/PA Wire)

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced they've updated the application system for this year's winter fuel payment.

This is the annual tax-free government grant of between £100-£300 to help elderly people afford their heating bills during the colder months.

To be eligible Brits must have been born before June 27 1960 and live in England, Wales or Northern Ireland, but how they can apply has changed.

The Government say 'most people' get the Winter Fuel Payment automatically as it's tied to a list of benefits but those who haven't got it before will need to apply.

The Department for Work and Pensions announced yesterday, October 20, that claims for winter 2026 and 2027 can now be made on the phone.

The system started on Monday - October 19 - and means they won't need to fill out a Winter Fuel Payment application form.

It is seven pages long and collects information ranging from your national insurance number, living situation, and bank details.

The Government have warned those claiming by phone will still need their national insurance number, the date you were married/entered into a civil partnership and your bank details.

You’ll also need to say whether during the qualifying week of 21 to 27 September 2026 you were:

in hospital getting free in-patient treatment
in a residential care home or Ilford Park Resettlement Home
in prison

Those who wish to claim via phone have been asked to call 0800 731 0160 with the window to claim shutting on March 31 2027.

YOU'RE AUTOMATICALLY ELIGIBLE IF YOU HAVE THE FOLLOWING:

State Pension
Pension Credit
Universal Credit
Attendance Allowance
Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
Carer’s Allowance
Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
awards from the War Pensions Scheme
Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit
Incapacity Benefit
Industrial Death Benefit

How much Winter Fuel Paymentyou'll get

You’ll get a letter in October or November telling you how much Winter Fuel Payment you’ll get.

Any money you get will not affect your other benefits.

If you live alone or no one you live with is eligible for the Winter Fuel Payment

You’ll get either:

£200 if you were born between 28 September 1946 and 27 June 1960
£300 if you were born before 28 September 1946

If your income is over £35,000, HMRC will take your Winter Fuel Payment back by either changing your tax code or adding the amount to your Self Assessment tax return.