Winter Fuel Payment - 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 2022/2023, claims must be sent and arrive by 31 March 2023.

Making a claim

Claim over the phone:

Telephone: 0800 731 0160
Textphone: Call Relay UK on 18001 then 0800 731 0160

On the gov.uk website you can:

• Download a form to print and fill in
• Claim using BSL

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 usually 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 July 2022