Winter Fuel Payment - How do I claim a Winter Fuel Payment?
A Winter Fuel Payment is a one-off, tax-free payment made to households with someone over pension age.
- Last reviewed 29 July 2025
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 certain benefits like Pension Credit, Universal Credit or State Pension.
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
For the winter of 2025/26, claims must be sent and arrive by 31 March 2026.
Energy, bills, and benefit support in LiverpoolMaking a claim
You can claim a Winter Fuel Payment by:
- post - from 15 September 2025
- phone - from 13 October 2025
Claim over the phone
- Telephone: 0800 731 0160
- Textphone: Call Relay UK on 18001 then 0800 731 0160
- British Sign Language (BSL) video relay service
Claim by post
Fill in a Winter Fuel Payment claim form and send it to the Winter Fuel Payment Centre:
- Winter Fuel Payment Centre
- Mail Handling Site A
- Wolverhampton
- WV98 1LR
What documents will I need to claim a Winter Fuel Payment?
You will need your Number used to record your national insurance contributions and tax paid. See full definition , 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 'qualification week' of 15 to 21 September 2025
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