What is the triple lock and how much is the state pension worth?

The winter fuel payment, external was previously paid to all pensioners to help with energy costs during the coldest period of the year.

In July 2024, the government said it would change the rules for the winter fuel payment in England and Wales from the next winter. The governments in Scotland and Northern Ireland said they would have to follow Westminster.

It said only those on pension credit or other means-tested benefits are eligible for the winter fuel payment, which is worth either £200 or and £300, depending on your circumstances.

The changes meant that more than 10 million pensioners did not receive a winter fuel payment in 2024.

Several charities, unions, and MPs criticised the decision.

In June 2025, after much speculation the government announced a U-turn which means winter fuel payments will now go to around nine million pensioners in England and Wales with an annual income of £35,000 or less. That’s about 75% of pensioners.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves said the government would “continue to means-test this payment so that it is targeted and fair, rather than restoring eligibility to everyone including the wealthiest”.

The rules will also change again in the rest of the UK.