Pensioners in Fife are being reminded of a winter heating payment to help with energy costs.
The support, called the Pension Age Winter Heating Payment, is delivered by Social Security Scotland and has replaced the previous Winter Fuel Payment for people in Scotland.
Most recipients will not need to apply, as the payment will be made automatically into the same bank account used for their State Pension or other Social Security Scotland benefits.
David Wallace, chief executive of Social Security Scotland, said: "This payment ensures pensioners receive vital support during the winter months.
"It’s important to highlight that most people do not need to do anything and will receive this payment automatically.
"There is an eligibility checker online that can help residents find out if they will get the payment and how much they are likely to receive.
"Social Security Scotland will begin sending letters to everyone who will receive a payment from November."
The payment will be made from November 2025 and will range from £101.70 to £305.10, depending on the recipient’s age and household circumstances.
According to the National Records of Scotland, there are approximately 78,000 people of pensionable age in Fife who could benefit from the payment.
To qualify, individuals must have been born on or before September 21, 1959, and must have lived in Scotland during the week of September 15 to 21.
It is estimated that more than one million pensioners across Scotland will receive the payment.
However, around 169,000 people will have the payment recovered through the tax system if they do not opt out, including pensioners with a taxable annual income above £35,000.
Further information and the eligibility checker are available online. mygov.scot/pensionheating.
A small number of people may need to apply, including those who have deferred their State Pension.
The online opt-out form is available until midday on October 10.
From October 13, 2025, people can opt out by contacting Social Security Scotland directly.
Share