Scam Warning - Winter Heating Payment

We have recently seen a sharp increase in reports relating to Winter Heating Payment scams. 

The scam involves a text message or email, impersonating the Department for Work and Pensions, and includes a link to click and provide personal details, as well as a small payment (usually £1) to receive the Winter Heating Payment. This is fraudulent. 

❓ How does the Winter Heating Payment work?

If you were born before 22 September 1959 you could get between £100 and £300 to help you pay your heating bills for winter 2025 to 2026. This is known as a ‘Winter Fuel Payment’.

If you’re eligible, you’ll get a letter in October or November saying how much you'll get. Most eligible people will be paid in November or December 2025.

The Department for Work and Pensions will NOT contact you via email or text message with a link to a form. Therefore, if you do receive an SMS or email pertaining to the Winter Heating Payment, please do not click the link or provide any personal or financial information. Instead, please report the message by:

Forwarding the text to 7726

Forwarding the email to report@phishing.gov.uk

For more information on the Winter Heating Payment, please visit: Winter Fuel Payment: Overview - GOV.UK

🔒 How can you protect yourself?

Most people get the Winter Heating Payment automatically, if they are eligible. 

If you are unsure of your eligibility visit Winter Fuel Payment: Check if you need to claim - GOV.UK

This link also provides information for those who have not yet been contacted on how they can claim the Winter Heating Payment by Post or Phone.

If you receive a message pertaining to be from the Department of Work and Pensions relating to the Winter Heating Payment, please do not click any links or provide any personal or financial information.