There are some important updates concerning the Winter Fuel Payment that we are keen to pass on to pensioners.
If pensioners earn over £35,000, HMRC will take back their Winter Fuel Payment.
From April 2027, if pensioners only pay tax through PAYE, HMRC will start collecting this money earlier, in the same year it’s paid. This means if an individual is in receipt of a winter payment for 2026 to 2027 and are due another for 2027 to 2028, both will be taken back at the same time.
Opting out
It is possible to choose not to get future Winter Fuel Payments. This is quick and easy to do. If you are in England, Wales or Northern Ireland, it is possible to opt out by:
- Filling in the online form on GOV.UK before 20 September
- Calling the Winter Fuel Payment Centre on 0800 731 0160 before 6:00pm on 18 September 2026
If circumstances change, it is possible to opt back in later
For more information, visit GOV.UK.
This calculator on GOV.UK can help individuals check if their income is over £35,000.