The Government has begun sending letters to six million UK households eligible for a £150 rebate on their energy bills, with the first letters arriving from today (October 22). The Warm Home Discount is paid automatically to qualifying households to ease cost-of-living pressures during the colder months.
Every household where the billpayer is on means-tested benefits is in line for the £150 rebate, following an expansion of the scheme last year that added nearly a million more families with children receiving extra support. The Government is urging those eligible to check their doormats and letterboxes for a confirmation letter.
Letters to arrive through January 2027
In an update issued today, the Government confirmed it is sending letters to households across England and Wales confirming they will get £150 off their energy bills this winter. The letters will begin to arrive this week and will continue to be issued through to January 2027.
Recipients will be advised that they will either get the discount automatically or, if they need to phone the helpline, must do so before February 26, 2027 and provide further information to receive the funding. Every billpayer on means-tested benefits now qualifies, removing restrictions that previously excluded many who needed help.
Minister urges eligible households to check for letters
Minister for Energy Consumers Polly Billington said: "I know that many families will be struggling with their energy bills this winter. That is why I urge those who think they qualify for the Warm Home Discount to keep an eye out for a letter confirming their eligibility."
Billington added: "Energy is an absolute essential, which is exactly why in October we cut VAT on all electricity bills and earlier this year we removed £150 of costs off bills, giving families breathing space this winter."
Scheme extended to 2030/31
Earlier this year, the Government confirmed that millions of eligible households will receive the Warm Home Discount for the rest of the decade, with the scheme set to continue through to 2030/31.
Ned Hammond, Deputy Director of Policy (Customers) at Energy UK, said: "The Warm Home Discount offers vital help for millions of households through the colder months, and this week the government will begin sending letters to eligible customers to explain how the support will be delivered."
Hammond added: "As we face the prospect of another winter of high and volatile energy prices, we encourage anyone struggling with their bill to contact their supplier to see what help is available for them."
Stew Horne, Group Head of Sector Intelligence and External Affairs at Energy Saving Trust, said: "As the weather turns colder and households start using more energy, many people will be worried about how they'll afford their energy bills. The Warm Home Discount provides valuable support to eligible households, helping to ease the cost of keeping homes warm."
Horne added: "We encourage people to read their letters from the UK government carefully and check whether they need to take any action. Understanding the support available and responding promptly if required can help ensure you receive the help you're entitled to this winter."
