Winter Fuel Payment

Many of us worry about rising fuel costs, but not heating our homes properly puts us at risk of cold-related illnesses such as pneumonia.

If you have reached Pension Credit age (the minimum age at which you qualify for the benefit), or receive certain benefits, you will get extra money to help you in winter.

Winter Fuel Payment

An annual payment to help with heating costs, made to households that include someone over Pension Credit age.

In 2022/23 the payments are:

• £200 if you’re under 80
• £300 if you’re 80 or over.

You’ll usually get less if you live with other people who also qualify – but, between you, it should add up to the same.

You may be eligible for Winter Fuel Payment for winter 2021-2022 if you meet all the following criteria:

• you were born on or before 26 September 1955
• you lived in the UK throughout the qualifying week for the financial year of 2021–2022 (which is 20–26 September 2021).

How do I claim?

You usually get a Winter Fuel Payment automatically if you get the State Pension or Pension Credit. You’ll receive a letter with the amount and the approximate payment date.

If you don’t receive the State Pension or Pension Credit but might be eligible, you need to make a claim by contacting the Winter Fuel Payment Centre on 0800 731 0160.

You can also download the claim form by visiting www.gov.uk/winter-fuel-payment/how-to-claim. You’ll need your NI number and bank or building society details to hand.

You only have to claim once. After that, you should get the payment automatically each year – as long as your circumstances don’t change.