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Millions of pensioners will begin receiving their Winter Fuel Payments, a financial boost aimed at helping older people cope with rising energy costs. The payments will be distributed to those aged over 65 throughout November and December.
Previously, all pensioners qualified, but last year the Labour government restricted eligibility to people claiming means-tested benefits, such as Pension Credit, reducing the number of recipients to around 1.5 million.
This year, after strong pressure from pensioner groups, Chancellor Rachel Reeves has widened the criteria again. The payments are now available to pensioners with an income of up to £35,000, increasing eligibility to nine million people.
Anyone born before 22 September 1959 will automatically receive between £100 and £300. However, the government has warned that some individuals may need to repay the money under certain conditions, according to reports from the Mirror.
If your annual income exceeds £35,000, the Express reports that you must return the payment unless you opted out beforehand. HMRC states the rule is based on personal income, not household income. For example, if you earn £36,000 and your partner earns £22,000, you must repay your allowance, but your partner can keep theirs.
There are additional situations where repayments are required:
Failure to report changes
If you do not notify the government immediately about changes—such as moving home or losing a qualifying benefit—you may have to return the payment.
Incorrect information
If the payment was issued because you supplied inaccurate details (e.g., the wrong date of birth), you will be required to repay the amount.
Overpayment errors
If HMRC or the DWP accidentally overpay you, any extra funds must be returned.
