The Winter Fuel Payment is a yearly support from the UK government that helps older people cover their heating costs during the cold season. It is usually given to those who receive the State Pension.
But in 2025, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) announced that not everyone who gets a pension will qualify for this benefit. Some pensioners will not receive the payment due to changes in the eligibility rules. Let’s break down the details in simple language so you can easily understand who will and won’t get it.
What is the DWP Winter Fuel Payment?
The Winter Fuel Payment is a tax-free benefit of £100 to £300, sent once a year to pensioners to help with heating bills. It is normally paid automatically to people who qualify. The amount depends on your age, living situation, and whether you receive certain other benefits.
Who is Eligible in 2025?
To get the Winter Fuel Payment in 2025, you must:
- Have been born on or before September 22, 1959.
- Live in the UK for at least one day during the qualifying week (expected in September 2025).
- Receive the State Pension or another social security benefit (like Pension Credit, Jobseeker’s Allowance, or Employment and Support Allowance).
Pensioners Who Are Not Eligible
While many pensioners will continue to get the payment, some groups will not. According to DWP rules for 2025, you cannot get the Winter Fuel Payment if:
- You are in the UK but did not live here during the qualifying week.
- You are in prison for the whole week.
- You are living in a care home and getting certain benefits like Pension Credit, Income Support, income-based ESA, or income-based JSA.
- You live abroad in countries where the average winter temperature is warmer than the UK (such as Spain, Portugal, Cyprus, France, or Italy).
Pensioners Ineligible for Winter Fuel Payment 2025
| Situation | Eligibility Status | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Pensioners in prison | Not Eligible | Cannot claim while serving a sentence |
| Living abroad in warmer countries (Spain, Portugal, Italy, etc.) | Not Eligible | Country does not qualify for heating support |
| Care home residents on certain benefits | Not Eligible | Already supported through other schemes |
| Pensioners not present in the UK during qualifying week | Not Eligible | Must be in UK at least one day |
How Much Can Eligible Pensioners Receive?
The amount you get depends on your age and living situation:
- £100–£200 for those under 80.
- £150–£300 for those aged 80 or over.
This payment is sent directly into bank accounts, usually in November or December 2025.
Why Are Some Pensioners Excluded?
The government wants to make sure the money reaches those who truly need help with heating costs in the UK. People living in warmer countries or those already receiving full support from other benefits are excluded to reduce unnecessary spending.
The DWP Winter Fuel Payment 2025 is a big relief for many pensioners struggling with energy bills. However, not every pensioner will qualify. Those living abroad in warmer countries, staying in care homes with certain benefits, or in prison will not receive it.
If you’re unsure about your status, it’s best to check directly with the DWP. This ensures you know whether to expect the payment or explore other financial support options available.
FAQs
No, if you live in a country where the winter is warmer than the UK, you will not qualify.
Most pensioners receive it automatically, but if you’ve not had it before, you may need to apply.
Payments are usually sent in November or December 2025 before Christmas.