How do I claim a Winter Fuel Payment?
Most people do not need to make a claim for a Winter Fuel Payment. You are usually paid automatically if you are getting other benefits like Basic State Pension or New State Pension. (Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction, Child Benefit and Universal Credit do not count as other benefits).
You will also be paid automatically if you got a payment last winter and your circumstances have not changed.
If you are not getting other benefits and you did not get a payment last winter, you must make a claim.
For the winter of 2018/2019, claims must be sent and arrive by 31 March 2019.
In England, Scotland and Wales
Claim forms and further information are available from the Winter Fuel Payment helpline:
Telephone: 0800 731 0160
Textphone: 0800 731 0464
Or you can download a copy of the Winter Fuel Payment claim form from the Gov.UK website (link opens in a new window)
In Northern Ireland
You can download a copy of the Winter Fuel Payment claim form for Northern Ireland from the NI Direct website(link opens in a new window)
What documents will I need to claim a Winter Fuel Payment?
You will need your national insurance number, the date of your marriage or civil partnership and your bank details.
When will my Winter Fuel Payment claim begin?
Most payments are made automatically between November and December. You should get your money by Christmas.
If you meet the qualifying conditions for a Winter Fuel Payment but do not get your payment automatically, you will need to make a claim and payment will be made to you three months after applying.
You cannot claim a Winter Fuel Payment for previous winters.
Updated September 2018