The Winter Fuel Payment, administered by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), is gearing up to be distributed soon to eligible recipients. Recently, the DWP has updated its instructions on how to apply for this benefit and has released a form for those who qualify but need to manually submit their claim.
This payment aims to assist with the increasing expenses of energy bills and will offer financial support to over nine million pensioners during the upcoming winter season. While the majority of eligible individuals in England and Wales will automatically receive the Winter Fuel Payment, some will have to submit a claim, starting this week.
If you are already receiving specific benefits, you will automatically receive the Winter Fuel Payment without needing to apply. However, if you do not receive these benefits, you must make a claim if certain conditions apply to you.
To apply, you can submit a claim by mail using the form available on GOV.UK starting from September 15 and sending it to the Winter Fuel Payment Centre. Alternatively, you can claim by phone from October 13 onwards by contacting the Winter Fuel Payment Centre at 0800 731 0160. Ensure you have your National Insurance number, bank details, and marriage or civil partnership date if applicable.
The deadline for submitting a claim is March 31, 2026. The payment amount you receive will be based on your circumstances between September 15 and September 21 this year, as well as your birthdate.
