Pension Age Winter Heating Payments to begin in November

This winter at least 880,000 pensioners across Scotland are set to receive Pension Age Winter Heating Payment to help with heating their home.

Pension Age Winter Heating Payment replaces Winter Fuel Payment in Scotland.

From November, eligible people of State Pension age will get a payment between £101.70 and £305.10 depending on their circumstances.  Most people will receive their payment automatically – no action is needed.

An eligibility checker has been created to help people find out how much they are likely to receive. You can access this at Pension Age Winter Heating Payment - mygov.scot

For pensioners with a taxable income of over £35,000, the payment will be taken back through the tax system during 2026/27.

People can choose to opt out of receiving the payment by completing the online form on the MyGov website by 10 October 2025.

Social Justice Secretary, Shirley-Anne Somerville said: “At least 880,000 pensioners in Scotland are estimated to benefit from the payment. And with the recent announcement on increasing energy costs, this could be a valuable lifeline for older people in Scotland.

“We are committed to treating people with the dignity, fairness and respect they deserve. Our approach supports those most in need. The Scottish Government will continue to ensure older people get the financial help they need, this winter or any winter.

“It is also important to highlight that most people don’t need to do anything – they will automatically receive the payment if eligible.”

If eligible, Social Security Scotland will send the payment to the same account as an individual’s State Pension, or any Social Security Scotland benefit received.

A small number of people will need to apply, these include people who have deferred their state pension. Find out more on this at Pension Age Winter Heating Payment - mygov.scot

The public should beware of scams around winter heating payments. Social Security Scotland will not request any personal information to be shared via email or text message. Advice on this is available at Social Security Scotland - Staying safe from winter heating scams

Help spread the word

You can access our resources to share information about Pension Age Winter Heating Payment via your professional networks and communications channels. Access this at Social Security Scotland - Pension Age Winter Heating Payment Resources