Who needs to act, and when
Pensioners who do not want the Winter Fuel Payment for winter 2026–27 must act quickly. The Winter Fuel Payment opt-out deadline approaches this month. Anyone whose total income exceeds £35,000 will see the payment recovered through the tax system.
In England and Wales, pensioners receiving a State Pension can opt out in several ways. Therefore, choose whichever route suits you best:
- Use the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) Manage your State Pension service by 11:59pm on 20 September 2026
- Complete DWP’s online opt-out form by the same deadline
- Opt out by telephone by 6pm on 18 September 2026
What opting out actually means
Opting out will not affect your entitlement to the State Pension. Furthermore, the decision carries forward automatically. In other words, you need not opt out again in future years.
However, you can change your mind. Simply contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre before 31 March 2027. You will then receive the payment for winter 2026–27 as normal.
How HMRC recovers the payment
For taxpayers with income above £35,000, HMRC will reclaim the money through the tax system. Broadly, recovery happens in one of two ways:
- Through self-assessment, where you already file a return
- Through an adjustment to your PAYE tax code
Helpfully, HMRC provides an online tool to check whether and how recovery will apply. Consequently, you can plan with confidence before the Winter Fuel Payment opt-out deadline approaches.
The position in Scotland
Scotland operates a separate scheme. Social Security Scotland administers the equivalent Pension Age Winter Heating Payment. Pensioners who wish to opt out have slightly longer.
Accordingly, you must complete the online opt-out form by midday on 19 October 2026. Alternatively, you can telephone Social Security Scotland. The same deadline of midday on 19 October 2026 applies either way.
Speak to us before the deadline
Are you unsure whether recovery will affect you? Do not leave the decision to chance. Contact our team today for clear, practical advice on your income position and tax code.
