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Who can get it and how much you can get

The Winter Fuel Payment is a tax free payment to help older people keep warm during winter. It is provided by the government to those who are eligible.

Who can get it in winter 2012/2013

If you were born on or before 5 July 2023 you may qualify. It’s not means tested and you can get it if you’re still working or claiming a benefit. In some circumstances you may be able to get it if you live in the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland.

If you were born after 5 July 1951, find out when you’ll qualify for Winter Fuel Payment on the following link.

• Winter Fuel Payment - you have not received it before

How much you can get

The amount of Winter Fuel Payment you can get depends on your personal situation - find out how much you can get.

• Winter Fuel Payment - how much you can get and when you'll be paid

You have received a Winter Fuel Payment before

If you have previously received a Winter Fuel Payment and there has been no change to your circumstances, you don’t need to reapply. You should automatically get your payment this year.

• Winter Fuel Payment - you have received it before

If your circumstances have changed

You may need to take action if your situation has changed. See the following link to find out who you need to do next.

• Winter Fuel Payment - what to do if there's a change in your situation

Winter Fuel Payments abroad

If you live in or move to another EEA country or Switzerland you may be able to get the Winter Fuel Payment. See following link for more information.

• Winter Fuel Payment - what to do if there's a change in your situation

You have not received a Winter Fuel Payment before

If you have not received a Winter Fuel Payment before then you need to find out if you qualify. Claims must be received by 31 March 2013.

If your partner is currently receiving a Winter Fuel Payment, but you aren’t, then you will need to claim.

Find out if you can claim it, how to claim it and how much you can get. There's also information on when you'll be paid, what to do if there's a change in your situation or you think your payment is incorrect.

• Winter Fuel Payment - you have not received it before

Cold Weather Payment

Cold Weather Payments are different to Winter Fuel Payments. You may get one for each week of very cold weather in your area. See the following link to find out who is eligible for Cold Weather Payment.

• Cold Weather Payment - find out more