New HMRC guidance on winter fuel payments

The winter fuel payment is paid to state pensioners automatically but is clawed back if your personal income is more than £35,000 gross per annum. The benefit is paid back through self-assessment if you're already completing tax returns, otherwise it will be collected through your PAYE code for 2026/27. 

New HMRC guidance confirms that you cannot pay the benefit back sooner, or by any other method. It also includes an online calculator to help you work out whether your income for the tax year exceeds the £35,000 threshold.