The DWP is warning individuals to stay vigilant against fraudulent messages concerning the Winter Fuel Payment, which provides £200 to qualifying households and £300 to those with someone over 80. This benefit is typically disbursed in November and December to pensioners born before September 22, 1959.
Even if your income exceeds £35,000, you will still receive the payment but will need to repay it through taxes. Opting out of the payment is possible, but it must be done through the official GOV.UK website or by contacting the Winter Fuel Payment Centre via mail or phone.
The deadline to opt out is September 15, 2025. The DWP cautioned on Twitter to beware of scammers attempting to deceive individuals regarding the Winter Fuel Payment and opting out process.
Eligibility for the Winter Fuel Payment is determined per individual’s income. For instance, if one partner earns £30,000 and the other £40,000, one will receive the payment while the other will repay it.
If you are claiming specific benefits between September 15 and 21, 2025, you will automatically receive the Winter Fuel Payment. If you do not receive these benefits, you must apply to receive the payment for the first time or if you deferred your state pension since the last payment.
Applications can be made by post from September 15 or by phone from October 15, based on your age at the end of the qualifying week. Certain conditions, such as being in hospital for the entire qualifying week or residing in a care home, may affect eligibility.
In Scotland, the Winter Fuel Payment has been replaced by the Pension Age Winter Heating Payment.