Millions of pensioners who received the Winter Fuel Allowance are being warned to brace for communication from HMRC. The reason? If they earn over £35,000 annually, they may be asked to repay the payment either through their tax code from April 2026 or on their 2025/26 tax return.
It’s a move that’s catching many off guard, especially since the allowance has long been viewed as a non-repayable support for older people during winter.
Repayment
The Winter Fuel Payment, often landing in pensioners’ bank accounts by mid-December, is designed to help with heating costs during the colder months. But for higher-earning retirees – specifically those with income over £35,000 – this winter boost may come with strings attached.
The Labour Government has confirmed that “they do not need to do anything – HMRC will be in touch.” So, pensioners won’t need to proactively contact HMRC. But come April 2026, they could see their tax code adjusted to repay the funds automatically, or face a bill when completing their self-assessment for 2025/26.
Eligibility
If you haven’t received your Winter Fuel Payment by 28 January 2026, or if you’re unsure whether you qualify, the advice is to call the Winter Fuel Payment Centre at 0800 731 0160. Many older people rely on this payment, especially with energy prices still relatively high compared to pre-crisis levels.
So who qualifies for it? Generally, people born before a specific cutoff date and living in the UK during a qualifying week in November are eligible. But this new push to recover payments from high-income pensioners changes the dynamic.
Support
The government is still positioning this payment as part of a broader commitment to supporting pensioners. A spokesperson stated:
“We’re committed to supporting pensioners with the cost of living… ensuring they can retire with dignity and financial security.”
This includes:
- Triple Lock Protection on pensions, with an expected increase of up to £1,900 during this Parliament.
- Pension Credit, offering low-income pensioners around £4,300 a year in extra support.
- Attendance Allowance for those with care needs, potentially worth up to £5,740 annually.
If you’re not sure whether you’re eligible for either of these benefits, it’s worth checking. Thousands of pensioners miss out simply because they don’t apply.
Scams
Unfortunately, whenever money is involved, scams aren’t far behind. HMRC’s Digital Defence Lead, Jonathan Silvester, has issued a warning to pensioners to be cautious.
He explains scammers are targeting pensioners with fake texts, emails, and calls pretending to be from HMRC, asking for bank details or urging immediate repayment of Winter Fuel Payments. His advice?
“Never let yourself be rushed. If someone contacts you relating to Winter Fuel Payments, wanting you to urgently transfer money or give personal information, be on your guard.”
If you’re ever unsure, don’t click links or open attachments, and don’t share personal data. You can report suspicious activity via the GOV.UK site – just search “report an HMRC scam.”
Timing
Most eligible pensioners will have already received their payment by mid-December, but if you haven’t, don’t panic. There’s still time, and delays happen. The key date to remember is 28 January 2026. That’s when the DWP says you should definitely contact them if no payment has arrived.
Also, keep an eye on your tax documents from HMRC throughout 2025 and into 2026. Any recovery action will show in your tax code or your self-assessment summary.
Reaction
The news has caused confusion and concern for many pensioners who didn’t realise the payment might need to be paid back. While the government says this move is part of a fairer system targeting those who can afford it, critics argue it undermines the very purpose of the Winter Fuel Allowance.
For now, the advice remains simple:
- Don’t panic
- Don’t fall for scams
- Watch for communication from HMRC
- Contact the DWP if your payment doesn’t arrive by late January
With the rising cost of living and tighter government budgets, it’s clear that pensioner benefits are being more closely scrutinised than ever before.
FAQs
Who has to repay the Winter Fuel Payment?
Pensioners earning over £35,000 may need to repay it.
When will HMRC start collecting repayments?
From April 2026 via tax code or tax return.
Do I need to contact HMRC myself?
No, HMRC will contact you directly if needed.
What if I haven’t received my payment?
Call 0800 731 0160 if you haven’t received it by 28 Jan 2026.
How can I avoid Winter Fuel scams?
Ignore urgent requests for info; report them on GOV.UK.
