The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued an urgent warning to pensioners about the qualifying week in September that determines eligibility for the 2025 Winter Fuel Payment, a vital £300 government support. Pensioners must meet specific conditions during the week of 15 to 21 September 2025 to receive this payment, which helps cover heating costs during winter.
DWP Issues Urgent Warning
| Key Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Qualifying Week | 15 – 21 September 2025 |
| Payment Amount | £200 or £300 depending on age |
| Income Threshold | £35,000 annual income limit for payment retention |
| Deadline to Opt Out | 15 September 2025 |
| Automatic Payment Date | November – December 2025 |
What Is the Winter Fuel Payment and Who Qualifies?
The Winter Fuel Payment is an annual government scheme aimed at helping older people in England and Wales with their heating bills during colder months. For 2025, pensioners born on or before 21 September 1959 who live in England or Wales and meet the conditions during the qualifying week (15 to 21 September 2025) are eligible.
Most recipients will receive the payment automatically in their usual benefit or state pension bank account between November and December 2025, removing the need for claims for the majority. Those who defer their state pension and receive no other DWP benefits may need to actively claim the payment.
The Impact of the Qualifying Week in September
The critical factor determining eligibility is whether pensioners meet the required conditions during the qualifying week of 15 to 21 September 2025. This means they must have been living in England or Wales, not in hospital for the entire week, and not in prison for the entire week. Those in care homes may have different eligibility rules based on their benefit status and residency duration.
Failing to meet these criteria during this specific week could result in pensioners missing out on the Winter Fuel Payment, effectively losing support worth up to £300, a significant amount for many on low or fixed incomes.
Payment Amounts and Income Thresholds
The payment varies by age: pensioners aged 80 or older will receive £300, while those under 80 will receive £200 for the winter of 2025/26. The payment is made per household.
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There is an income threshold: pensioners with an annual income over £35,000 will have their Winter Fuel Payment reclaimed by Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC) through adjustments in their tax code or self-assessment, ensuring the benefit targets lower-income pensioners effectively.
Changes to Eligibility and Opt-Out Deadline
Significant changes were introduced ahead of this year’s payments. Eligibility no longer depends on receipt of certain benefits but is primarily limited by the income threshold and residency during the qualifying week. This widened the support to approximately nine million pensioners, over three-quarters of all pension-age individuals in England and Wales.
Pensioners who do not want to receive the payment must opt out by 15 September 2025. Opting out can be done via the Winter Fuel Payment helpline or through the official government website.
Importance of Being Informed and Next Steps
The DWP has emphasised the importance of pensioners being aware of the qualifying week and deadlines to avoid losing entitlement or facing repayment demands later. Letters confirming payment amounts and timing will be sent out in October or November 2025.
For more details or to check individual circumstances, pensioners can visit the official Winter Fuel Payment page or contact the Winter Fuel Payment helpline.
Forward Outlook
As the qualifying week approaches, the DWP urges pensioners to confirm their circumstances and act before the opt-out deadline. This winter support plays a crucial role in easing the cost of heating for millions of vulnerable older adults.
