Nine million pensioners across England and Wales are set to receive their winter fuel payments soon, but with the money on its way, people are being urged to stay alert for potential scams.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) said people should be on their guard against fraudsters posing as government officials or payment providers to trick people into sharing their personal information.
As payments begin to reach bank accounts, pensioners are being urged to continue to be aware of scam messages and remember that they will never be asked to provide bank details in order to receive the payment.
The government has said anyone who receives a text message inviting them to apply for a payment should not engage with it, as they usually work out if you are eligible and then send you a letter.
Those who do receive a scam text should report it and forward it to 7726.
Pensions minister Torsten Bell said: ‘From today, nine million pensioners across England and Wales will benefit from the Winter Fuel Payment hitting their bank account.
‘Payments are being made automatically throughout November and December, so don’t worry if yours hasn’t arrived yet.
‘But do remember to stay alert to scam texts, the Government will never ask you to share personal information or click on links to claim your payment.’
Have you received a scam text about winter fuel payment?
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Yes
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No
If any pensioner has any questions on their eligibility or if they have not received a payment by January 28, 2026, they should contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre.
The vast majority of pensioners should see payments in their bank accounts by mid-December, with amounts varying from £100 to £300.
Pensioners on low incomes can also apply for further support through pension credit, worth around £4,300 on average a year.
Those with care needs can apply for attendance allowance, worth up to £5,740 a year in some cases.
This year’s winter fuel payments come after the government previously announced plans to restrict eligibility, which was later reversed.
How to avoid being scammed
- Think before you click on any links or download attachments
- Stay vigilant about any messages that ask you to act immediately, offer something that sounds too good to be true, or require you to provide personal information
- Make your passwords complicated and do not reuse them
- Keep an eye on accounts, credit reports and bills – verify any unusual activity
- Never disclose bank details, as the government will never ask for these details in this way
- Do not reply to text messages or emails unless you are certain who is sending them
If you think you’ve been a victim of an online scam or fraud
Contact Action Fraud if you think you’ve lost money or been hacked because of an online scam or fraud and you’re in England or Wales. You can:
- report online – either sign up for an account or continue as a ‘guest’
- call 0300 123 2040
If you’re in Scotland and you’ve lost money because of an online scam or fraud, report the crime to Police Scotland.
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