At least 880,000 pensioners across Scotland are expected to receive financial support this winter through the new Pension Age Winter Heating Payment.
The payments, ranging from £101.70 to £305.10 depending on personal circumstances, will begin in November and continue throughout the colder months.
Most eligible people will receive the payment automatically, without needing to apply.
The new benefit replaces the Winter Fuel Payment in Scotland and will be delivered by Social Security Scotland.
It comes at a time of rising energy prices and growing concerns about the cost of living for older people.
To qualify, individuals must have been born on or before 21 September 1959 and living in Scotland during the week beginning 15 September 2025.
Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville said the payment would be a “valuable lifeline” for older Scots.
“With the recent announcement on increasing energy costs, this could be a valuable lifeline for older people in Scotland,” she said.
“We are committed to treating people with the dignity, fairness and respect they deserve.
“Our approach supports those most in need.
“The Scottish Government will continue to ensure older people get the financial help they need, this winter or any winter.”
Letters confirming eligibility will be issued by Social Security Scotland ahead of the first payments.
The amount someone receives will depend on a range of factors, including their age, whether they live alone or with another eligible person, and whether they live in residential care.
Pensioners who share a home with a partner or relative who is also eligible may receive a joint payment.
A small number of people will need to apply manually.
This includes those who have deferred their State Pension or receive certain joint benefits from the Department for Work and Pensions where the main recipient is under pension age.
For those with a taxable income of over £35,000, HMRC will recover the payment through the tax system during 2026/27.
People who do not wish to receive the payment can opt out by filling in an online form before the deadline of Friday 10 October 2025.
To help people check what they’re entitled to, a free online eligibility calculator is available via the Scottish Government website.
The Scottish Fiscal Commission expects around 1.055 million payments to be made this winter, with approximately 169,000 of them to be recovered through tax.
Somerville added:
“It’s also important to highlight that most people don’t need to do anything, they will automatically receive the payment if eligible.”
The Scottish Government is also warning the public to be alert for scams.
Social Security Scotland will never ask for personal information by email or text, and anyone unsure should contact official channels for advice.
More information and tools to check eligibility can be found at mygov.scot
