The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued a direct message to state pensioners across Great Britain, confirming that a vital £150 energy bill discount is now being automatically applied for those who qualify.
Automatic Payments and Vital Scam Warning
In a recent post on the social media platform X, the DWP highlighted the Warm Home Discount Scheme, a one-off £150 credit designed to help with electricity costs during the colder months. The key message from the department is that for most eligible households, the £150 credit will be automatically applied to their electricity account; there is no need to apply.
The DWP also issued a stark warning about fraudsters attempting to exploit the scheme. "If you get a call asking you to apply for the discount, it’s a scam," the department stated emphatically. Genuine applications are not handled via unsolicited phone calls.
Who Qualifies for the Support?
Eligibility for the Warm Home Discount depends on where you live in Great Britain. The scheme is not available in Northern Ireland.
For residents in England and Wales, you qualify if you:
- Receive the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit.
- Are on a low income and meet your supplier's specific criteria.
For those in Scotland, you qualify if you:
- Receive the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit.
- Are on a low income and satisfy your energy supplier's criteria for the scheme. Those in Scotland on a low income may need to contact their supplier directly to apply.
Important Scheme Details
The £150 is applied as a discount directly to your electricity bill between October 2024 and March 2025. The money is not paid directly to you. If your energy supplier provides both your gas and electricity, you may be able to have the discount applied to your gas bill instead; you should contact them to enquire.
The discount is also available for households using a pre-pay or pay-as-you-go electricity meter. Your supplier will inform you how you will receive the discount, for example, through a top-up voucher.
The DWP has confirmed that receiving this £150 payment will not affect your eligibility for Cold Weather Payments or Winter Fuel Payments. Those living in park homes should be aware that the application process is different.
