Warm Home Discount scheme extended to more customers

People on low incomes and susceptible to cold-related illnesses will get £150 off their energy bills this winter.

Now in its thirteenth year, the government’s Warm Home Discount scheme will provide a one-off payment via energy companies.

This year the scheme has been extended to more energy providers, too. Previously, only those who had 50,000 customers or more had to sign up to the scheme. From this year, that number has been reduced to 1,000 or more, meaning more customers could benefit from the scheme.

And there’s more good news, with the government also confirming the scheme will run until at least March 2026 – a further three winters, including this one coming up.

Who is eligible?

In England and Wales, you’ll will get the Warm Home Discount if they receive the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit or are on a low income and have high energy costs.

In Scotland, the eligibility criteria is slightly different. You’ll still get it if you receive the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit. But otherwise, you may have to meet your own energy supplier’s specific criteria for the scheme.

How to get the discount

You can’t apply for the discount as it’s all done automatically. The money isn’t paid to you but taken off your electricity bill between October and March.

And don’t worry if you’re on a prepayment – or pay-as-you-go – meter. You could still be eligible. Instead of the £150 coming off your bill, if you are eligible your energy provider will provide you with vouchers to top-up your meter. However, these are likely to be needed to be used by a certain time.

If you’re eligible, you’ll receive a letter in the coming months – and likely before January – telling you about the discount. If you don’t get a letter and you think you should have, you can contact the Warm Home Discount helpline on 0800 107 8002.

If you are struggling with your energy bills, take a look at our Bounce Back Checklist to see how we might be able to help.

Alternatively, click here to find money and energy advice local to you.