The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) said Brits will start to receive winter fuel payments but need to be on their guard against fraudsters attempting to trick people into sharing their personal information
Winter fuel payments are beginning to land in pensioners’ bank accounts, but the Government is urging Brits to remain vigilant against potential scams.
Around nine million pensioners throughout England and Wales are set to receive between £100 and £300, with payments being processed automatically over November and December.
The exact amount that pensioners will receive depends on their entitlement to additional benefits, whether they live with a partner and whether they reside in a care home.
But the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is warning people to stay alert as fraudsters impersonating government officials, or other payment providers, may attempt to deceive individuals into disclosing their personal details.
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As the payments roll out, pensioners are being reminded to watch out for these fraudulent messages and bear in mind that they will never be requested to supply bank details to claim the payment.
Anyone receiving a text message prompting them to apply for a payment should avoid engaging with it, including clicking any links, and instead forward it to 7726, the Government advised.
Pensions minister Torsten Bell said: “From today, nine million pensioners across England and Wales will benefit from the Winter Fuel Payment hitting their bank account.
“Payments are being made automatically throughout November and December, so don’t worry if yours hasn’t arrived yet. But do remember to stay alert to scam texts, the Government will never ask you to share personal information or click on links to claim your payment.”
Most pensioners should see payments in their bank accounts by mid-December.
If any pensioner has queries about their eligibility or has not received a payment by 28 January 2026, they are urged to get in touch with the Winter Fuel Payment Centre, according to the Government.
Pensioners on low incomes can also seek additional support through pension credit – worth around £4,300 on average annually – while those with care needs can apply for attendance allowance, which can be worth up to £5,740 a year in some instances.
The Government had previously proposed plans to limit eligibility for winter fuel payments, but this was later reversed, with payments being reinstated to the vast majority of pensioners who previously received them.
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