DWP Confirms £300 Winter Bonus For Pensioners With Over £35,000 In Savings
Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has officially confirmed that pensioners with over £35,000 in savings will still be eligible for the £300 Winter Bonus this year. This announcement comes as a huge relief for many retirees who were unsure if their savings would affect their entitlement to this vital support during the colder months.
Every year, millions of pensioners across the UK rely on the Winter Fuel Payment to help with the increased cost of heating their homes. The additional £300 boost, part of the government’s broader Cost of Living support, aims to ease the financial burden many elderly people face as energy bills remain high.
What Is The £300 Winter Bonus?
The £300 Winter Bonus is an extra payment given to eligible pensioners on top of their usual Winter Fuel Payment. It’s designed to help older people cover the additional costs that come with keeping their homes warm during the winter. With the ongoing cost of living crisis and rising energy bills, this bonus couldn’t come at a better time.
The DWP’s confirmation means that pensioners with savings above £35,000 won’t lose out on this support. Previously, some believed that having significant savings might disqualify them from the payment, but this is not the case for the Winter Fuel Payment or the extra £300 bonus.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for the £300 Winter Bonus, pensioners must:
- Be born on or before 24 September 1957
- Live in the UK during the qualifying week, which usually falls in late September
- Already be entitled to the standard Winter Fuel Payment
It’s important to note that your total savings, including amounts over £35,000, do not impact your eligibility for this specific payment. Many means-tested benefits take savings into account, but the Winter Fuel Payment and the £300 top-up do not follow the same rules.
How Much Will Pensioners Receive?
The amount pensioners receive depends on their age and personal circumstances. Here is a breakdown in the table below:
| Age | Standard Winter Fuel Payment | Additional £300 Bonus | Total Payment |
|---|---|---|---|
| 66 – 79 years old | £250 – £600 | £300 | £550 – £900 |
| 80 years and above | £300 – £700 | £300 | £600 – £1000 |
Why Is This Payment Important?
The winter months can be tough, especially for pensioners who often face higher heating costs due to health needs or mobility issues. Many rely on fixed incomes, and with inflation and soaring energy bills, heating homes can become a financial strain.
The £300 Winter Bonus is part of the government’s plan to help pensioners cope with these challenges. By ensuring that savings over £35,000 don’t affect eligibility, the DWP is providing peace of mind to those who have worked hard and saved for their retirement.
When Will Payments Be Made?
According to the DWP, payments will be automatically issued between November 2025 and January 2026. Pensioners don’t need to apply for the Winter Fuel Payment or the £300 top-up separately. If you’re eligible, the money will be paid directly into your bank account.
It’s also worth noting that the payment is non-taxable and does not affect other benefits. This means pensioners can receive their Winter Fuel Payment and the £300 bonus without worrying about reductions to their Pension Credit, Housing Benefit, or other entitlements.
Final Thoughts
In simple terms, if you’re a pensioner with savings over £35,000, you can still receive the £300 Winter Bonus this winter. The DWP’s confirmation clears up previous concerns and offers much-needed support for older people facing the cold season.
It’s always good to double-check your eligibility on the official government website or speak to your local benefits advisor if you’re unsure. No one should have to choose between heating and eating, and this bonus aims to ensure pensioners stay warm without added financial stress.