The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will begin posting letters today (October 20, 2025) to households eligible for the 2025/26 Warm Home Discount scheme. The letters, which confirm a £150 discount on energy bills, should be delivered by early January 2026.
Eligible recipients do not receive the money directly. Instead, the DWP issues the £150 discount to energy suppliers, who credit it to electricity accounts or provide top-up vouchers for prepayment meter customers. The scheme runs from October to March each year and is funded by participating energy companies.
To qualify in England and Wales, you must receive the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit, or be on a low income with high energy costs. For those not on Pension Credit, eligibility may depend on receiving certain means-tested benefits or meeting income thresholds as of August 11, 2024.
The letter will indicate whether the discount will be applied automatically or if you need to contact the Warm Home Discount helpline to verify details. The final deadline for claims is February 28, 2026, with discounts applied by the end of March 2026.
Most major UK suppliers, including British Gas, EDF, E.ON, Octopus Energy, OVO, Scottish Power, and others, are required to offer the discount. The scheme does not affect Cold Weather Payments or Winter Fuel Payments.
