State pensioners pushed to ‘check eligibility’ for £300 boost as Winter Fuel Payment deadline weeks away
State pensioners are being reminded of an upcoming deadline for energy bill support, as households have only weeks left to claim the annual Winter Fuel Payment.
Older households across the country are being encouraged to verify their eligibility for the up to £300 in energy bill assistance before the March 31, 2026 cut-off date arrives.
Gordon Wallis, a consumer expert for Your NRG, highlighted that numerous pensioners remain unaware of the support on offer despite the ongoing period of very cold weather.
He shared: “Every pound matters, particularly during the winter months when heating costs can rise sharply. We’re encouraging pensioners and their families to double-check that payments have been received and that no support is being left unclaimed.”
Are you eligible for a Winter Fuel Payment?
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The Winter Fuel Payment, referred to as the Pension Age Winter Heating Payment in Scotland, offers eligible older residents up to £300 towards their heating expenses.
For the majority of qualifying pensioners, this sum arrives automatically without any action required. However, certain individuals must apply before the deadline passes.
Those who need to make a claim can do so either by completing a Winter Fuel Payment claim form and sending it by post, or by telephoning the Winter Fuel Payment Centre directly.
Families are being urged to assist elderly relatives in checking whether payments have been received and submitting any outstanding applications promptly.
Eligibility of Winter Fuel Payment in winter 2024 to 2025 linked to means-tested benefits | DWP
Britons have been saddled with record high energy bills in recent years | PAPensioners whose taxable income exceeds £35,000 should be aware that the Government will recover the payment through the tax system during the 2026/27 financial year.
Mr Wallis emphasised the importance of households staying informed about how the scheme operates to ensure they are not disappointed down the line.
He added: “It’s important for households to understand how the scheme works, particularly if their circumstances have changed. A quick check now could prevent unnecessary financial pressure later.”
Beyond the Winter Fuel Payment, several other schemes exist to help with energy costs during colder months, including Cold Weather Payments.
Labour has received backlash over its past attempt to means-test Winter Fuel Payments
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PAThe Warm Home Discount has been extended this winter, providing approximately six million households with a £150 reduction on their energy bills. This discount applies automatically for most recipients claiming certain means-tested benefits, including those on Pension Credit.
Under the Cold Weather Payment, a £25 weekly sum is delivered whenever temperatures average zero degrees or below for seven consecutive days, running from November 1, 2025 until March 31, 2026 in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Mr Wallis said: “We regularly speak to customers who are worried about heating costs, but there are several schemes designed to ease that burden. Taking the time to check eligibility for each one could make a meaningful difference over the colder months.”
Families across the UKe are encouraged to support older relatives in reviewing their entitlements and ensuring any necessary claims are submitted before the deadline.
