It corresponds to payments of up to £300.
Millions of pensioners urged to check bank accounts this month (Image: Getty)
Nine million pensioners are being urged to check their bank accounts for a six-digit code this month. The payment reference corresponds to the Winter Fuel Payment worth up to £300, which the DWP said will allow pensioners to identify their payments safely and avoid falling victim to scams.
The Department for Work and Pensions warned pensioners to be wary of fraudsters, who may target them at this time of year to extract personal information by pretending to inquire about the winter fuel allowance, which should be paid to the majority of retirees by the end of the month. It highlighted that the DWP will never ask pensioners to share their personal details or click on links to claim payments.
Instead, it said the safest way for pensioners to check if they have received the payment is to look for the reference ‘DWP WFP’ on their bank statements, which will be preceded by the payee’s National Insurance number.
The maximum amount retirees can receive is £300, however it all depends on their living circumstances and when they were born. Anyone older than state pension age who earns more than £35,000 will also have the money retrieved back in tax.
Minister for Pensions Torsten Bell says: “Nine million pensioners across England and Wales will benefit from the Winter Fuel Payment hitting their bank account.
“Payments are being made automatically throughout November and December, so don’t worry if yours hasn’t arrived yet.
“But do remember to stay alert to scam texts, the Government will never ask you to share personal information or click on links to claim your payment. The vast majority of pensioners should see this payment in their bank account by mid-December.”
He added: “We’re committed to supporting pensioners with the cost of living, ensuring they can retire with the dignity and financial security they deserve.
“The payments sit alongside the Government’s commitment to the Triple Lock, which means millions of pensioners are set to see their State Pension rise by up to £1,900 over the course of this Parliament.”
If any pensioner has questions on whether they are eligible or has not received a payment by January 28 2026, they are encouraged to contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre on 0800 731 0160.
