The Winter Fuel Allowance (Winter Fuel Payment) for 2025/26 will be given to pensioners in England and Wales who meet these criteria:

• Born on or before 21 September 1959 (state pension age).
• Have an annual income of £35,000 or less.
• Live in England or Wales during the qualifying week (15–21 September 2025).
• Not in prison or in a care home under certain conditions.
• Eligibility is automatic for most; no need to apply if receiving qualifying benefits or State Pension.

There is an income cap of £35,000 a year for people to receive the payment without clawback. Those earning above this amount may have the payment reclaimed via the tax system. The payment is generally £200 per household, or £300 if someone is aged 80 or above in the household.

In summary, most pensioners born before 22 September 1959, with income £35,000 or less, living in England or Wales, and meeting the residency requirements, will get the Winter Fuel Allowance for winter 2025 without applying. The government reinstated this wider eligibility to benefit around nine million pensioners this year.