Up to two million pensioners across the UK could face a surprise tax bill of £300 under new Winter Fuel Payment rules due to take effect this winter. (In Scotland, the Winter Fuel Payment has been replaced by the Pension Age Winter Heating Payment.)
From November 2025, those aged 66 and over will continue to receive the Winter Fuel Payment with no need to apply. This allowance is meant to help with the cost of heating during colder months, but a new income threshold has been introduced that could change who ultimately keeps the money.
