Pensioners in Ceredigion received an estimated £3.1 million in Winter Fuel Payments last winter, with the number of recipients increasing almost tenfold following changes to eligibility rules.

Figures from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) show 18,014 people in Ceredigion received payments during winter 2025–26, compared with just 1,883 the previous winter.

The increase follows the UK Government's decision to restore Winter Fuel Payments to most pensioners, reversing restrictions introduced in 2024 which largely limited eligibility to those receiving certain means-tested benefits.

Neighbouring Powys recorded 35,961 recipients, up from 3,467 the previous winter, with payments totalling approximately £6.2 million.

In Gwynedd, 25,852 pensioners received payments worth an estimated £4.6 million, compared with 3,356 recipients a year earlier, representing a 670 percent increase in claimants in the county.

Across the three counties, almost 80,000 pensioners received approximately £13.9 million in winter fuel support.

The figures were analysed by SEO Backlinks using DWP statistics published in September, with estimated totals calculated from the number of people receiving payments of £100, £150, £200 or £300.

However, the amounts do not account for money subsequently recovered through taxation from higher-income pensioners.

This winter's payments are now beginning, with people born on or before 27 June 1960 potentially eligible for between £100 and £300, depending on their age and circumstances. Payments begin on 15 November.

Most eligible pensioners will receive payments automatically during November or December, although some may need to submit a claim.

Those with annual incomes exceeding £35,000 will have their payments recovered through the tax system.

Anyone who believes they qualify but has not received a notification or payment by 27 January 2027 should contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre on 0800 731 0160.