Millions of low-income households across the UK are waking up to a crucial financial boost this winter, as the government's expanded Warm Home Discount scheme delivers £150 off energy bills.
Who Qualifies for the Expanded Support?
The Labour government has significantly widened the eligibility criteria for the vital support payment this year. The key change means that everyone claiming Universal Credit will now receive the discount.
This expansion brings an estimated three million additional households into the scheme for the first time, offering relief during the coldest months. The one-off payment is applied directly to energy accounts between November and January, or issued as a top-up voucher for those on prepayment meters.
Full List of Qualifying Benefits
Beyond Universal Credit, the £150 support is also automatically provided to recipients of several other means-tested benefits. These include:
- Housing Benefit
- Income Support
- Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
Low-income pensioners who receive the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit will continue to qualify for the discount as they have in previous years.
Government Focus on Cost of Living
Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasised the scheme's role in tackling the ongoing financial pressures facing families. "We're concentrating on the single most important issue for families up and down the country, which is the cost of living, by taking £150 off their energy bills," he stated.
Starmer added that the expansion represents "an addition of £150 for six million of the poorest households," underlining the targeted nature of the support. The move forms a central part of the government's winter support package, designed to help vulnerable residents manage soaring energy costs.
The discount provides a critical buffer, allowing families to redirect saved funds towards other essential expenses like food and clothing during the expensive festive period.
