The Department for Work and Pensions has confirmed that Winter Fuel Payments for 2026/27 will begin in mid-November, providing support to eligible Oxfordshire residents.
Most qualifying pensioners will receive payments automatically in November or December, although the department said payments would be distributed in stages rather than on a single date.
Support worth between £100 and £300 towards heating costs will depend on age and household circumstances.
People born on or before 27 June 1960 may qualify, with entitlement and payment amounts determined by circumstances during the qualifying week of 21 to 27 September.
Letters confirming payment amounts are expected in October or November.
Automatic payments will normally be made into the bank account used for a pension or other benefits, meaning no claim is required.
A delay after the mid-November start date will not necessarily indicate a problem.
Pensioners with total individual income exceeding £35,000 will still receive payments if eligible, but HM Revenue and Customs will recover the amounts through the tax system.
Gordon Wallis, an energy expert, said the payment could provide significant assistance to older households as temperatures fall and heating use rises.
Wallis advised pensioners to consider how the money is spent and how heating budgets could be maintained throughout winter, including measures to retain warmth at home rather than relying solely on increased heating use.
The maximum £300 payment is available in specified circumstances for eligible people born before 28 September 1946.
Other qualifying pensioners may receive £100, £150, £200 or £300, depending on age and household and benefit circumstances.
The scheme is intended to help older people meet home-heating costs during the colder months.