Pensioners Urged to Opt Out of Winter Fuel Payments Before September Deadline
The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) has warned pensioners with incomes over £35,000 that they must act quickly if they wish to opt out of the winter fuel payment for the 2026/27 tax year. The deadline is Friday, September 18, 2026, for phone-based opt-outs and Sunday, September 20, 2026, via HMRC's online service. Those who do not opt out will receive payments of £100 to £300 starting in November 2026, which may later be reclaimed through the tax system. Pensioners must ensure these amounts are included on their self-assessment returns or adjust their tax codes accordingly. Opting out is a one-time action that remains valid for future years unless reversed by September of each year. Those who previously opted out in 2025/26 do not need to re-opt-out this time, but can change their decision until March 31, 2027. Separately, Scottish pensioners may be eligible for a different winter heating payment and have an extended opt-out deadline of October 19. ICAEW advises using HMRC's online tool to determine eligibility and understand the recovery process.
Topics: HMRC income tax opt-out deadline pensioners winter fuel payments