Winter fuel payments - eligibility
Are you eligible for a winter fuel payment?
You are eligible for the winter fuel payment in 2025-26 if:
- You were born on or before 21 September 1959
- You have lived in England or Wales for the qualifying week of 15 to 21 September 2025
If you have over £35,000 of taxable (gross) income per year, the payment you receive will be recovered through the tax system later on.
Do I qualify if I live in a care home?
You're not entitled to winter fuel payment if you lived in a care home from 23 June to 21 September 2025 whilst in receipt of any of the following:
- Pension Credit
- Universal Credit
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
How do I claim the winter fuel payment?
Payments are automatic, so you do not need to do anything.
If you have not received your winter fuel payment by January 2026, you can make a claim before 31 March 2026. To do this, contact the winter fuel payment helpline on 0800 731 0160.
What to do if you're struggling to pay your energy bills:
- You can help yourself by using the Pension Credit toolkit (GOV.UK), or you can find advice on winter fuel payment (moneysavingexpert.com)
- If you are struggling to manage with rising costs, or would like assistance claiming pension credit, contact the cost of living support team for advice and support:
- Cost of living contact form
- Telephone: 01455 238 141
- Visit cost of living support
- If you are a Leicestershire resident, you can contact Citizens Advice Leicestershire:
- Visit Citizens Advice Leicestershire (citizensadviceleicestershire.org)
- Telephone: 0808 278 7854
Last updated: 08/10/2025 14:43
