Winter Fuel Payments: people in residential care

The Winter Fuel Payment is a tax-free annual payment to help older people with the cost of their winter fuel bills. The “standard” rates are £200 per eligible household where the oldest person is under 80, and £300 for households containing a person aged 80 or over.

People in residential care do not however qualify for the full rate of Winter Fuel Payment. Those receiving income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, income-related Employment and Support Allowance or Pension Credit receive no payment. Other residents receive half the full rate (£100, or £150 for people aged 80 or over).

This note describes the rules as they apply to people in care homes, and explains the rationale behind them.