The government is urging eligible households to ensure their name appears on their energy bill before 24 August to automatically receive the £150 Warm Home Discount this winter. The scheme provides a discount on electricity bills for low-income households, applied directly by energy companies rather than paid to customers.
To qualify, you or your partner must receive certain benefits, including housing benefit, income-based jobseeker's allowance, or pension credit. Your name, or your partner's name, must also be on the energy bill. In England and Wales, energy suppliers will automatically match eligibility using customer records from 24 August. In Scotland, automatic discounts apply only to those receiving pension credit guarantee; others must apply from October.
The government has expanded eligibility this year, meaning around 6 million households will receive the discount, an increase of 2.7 million from last year. Energy minister Miatta Fahnbulleh urged people to spread the word to family and friends. Richard Neudegg of Uswitch called the discount a lifeline for vulnerable customers and advised those struggling to contact their supplier.
Separately, the government reversed the removal of winter fuel payments for most pensioners, with up to £300 available to those receiving the state pension. However, those with incomes of £35,000 or more may have the payment clawed back through tax. Scammers are targeting vulnerable people with fraudulent messages about a 'winter heating allowance'; the Department for Work and Pensions confirmed it never texts to request personal information.
