Pension Age Winter Heating Payment - How do I claim a Pension Age Winter Heating Payment?

Most people do not need to make a claim for a Pension Age Winter Heating Payment. It is usually paid automatically if you are getting certain benefits like Pension Credit, State Pension or Universal Credit.  

You might need to make a claim if:  

• You didn’t get a Winter Fuel Payment last year  
• You have deferred your State Pension since last winter  
• You are a couple with a joint claim for Pension Credit, Universal Credit, Income-based Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), Income-related Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA), Income Support and the main person is under State Pension age.  

For winter 2025/26, claims must be sent and arrive by 31 March 2026. If you have a good reason for missing this deadline, speak to Social Security Scotland.  

Making a claim  

You can claim a Pension Age Winter Heating Payment when the scheme opens in October 2025.  

Claim over the phone  

• Telephone: 0800 182 2222 (Monday to Friday 8am to 5pm) 
• British Sign Language (BSL): Contact Scotland service 

Claim by post  

Complete a Pension Age Winter Heating Payment form and send it to: 

• Social Security Scotland  
• General Enquiries 
• PO Box 10301 
• Dundee  
• DD1 9FY  

What documents will I need to claim a Pension Age Winter Heating Payment?  

You will need your national insurance number , the date of your marriage or civil partnership and your bank details.  

You will also need to let them know if you were in hospital, a residential care home or in prison during the qualifying week of 15 to 21 September.