The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that claimants of Universal Credit, Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), and Pension Credit must ensure they are named on their energy bill by Sunday, August 23, to receive the £150 Warm Home Discount this year. The discount is part of a government scheme aimed at helping households on means-tested benefits with their energy costs.
Who is eligible and how to get the discount
Households in England and Wales where the billpayer is on means-tested benefits will receive the discount automatically. This includes those receiving Universal Credit, ESA, Pension Credit, and Housing Benefit. However, the crucial requirement is that the claimant's name must appear on the energy bill. If the bill is in someone else's name, the discount may not be applied.
For those whose electricity supplier is not part of the Warm Home Discount scheme, switching to a participating supplier could be an option. However, energy secretary Miatta Fahnbulleh cautioned that switching may not always result in savings, and it is important to check whether a new supplier participates in the scheme before making the switch.
Government expands scheme to help more families
The Warm Home Discount was expanded last winter, benefiting nearly a million more families with children. Energy secretary Miatta Fahnbulleh said: "Families will be worried about their energy bills this winter and our focus is on giving them breathing space, as we continue to work to bring down bills. Almost a million more families with children received the £150 Warm Home Discount last winter, after we expanded the scheme. If you know someone who might benefit, please start spreading the word and encourage them to check they are named on their energy bill."
In addition to the £150 rebate, households are also set to benefit from a £45 VAT cut on electricity bills, announced by new Prime Minister Mr Burnham. The VAT reduction will take effect from October 1, following a previous move by former chancellor Rachel Reeves in November that cut an average of £150 off bills. Together, these measures are expected to make energy costs nearly £200 cheaper overall for eligible households.
Action required before the deadline
Claimants are urged to verify that their name appears on their energy bill before the August 23 deadline. If not, they should contact their energy supplier to update the details. The DWP has emphasized that the discount is automatic for those who meet the criteria, but only if the claimant is named on the bill.
For those considering switching suppliers, it is advisable to confirm participation in the Warm Home Discount scheme to avoid losing the benefit. The government continues to encourage eligible households to take advantage of the support available, particularly as winter approaches.
