The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that state pensioners receiving Pension Credit, Universal Credit or Housing Benefit can get £150 off their energy bills this winter through the Warm Home Discount scheme. To receive the payment automatically, eligible claimants must be named on their energy bill by 23 August.
In England and Wales, households in receipt of Housing Benefit, Income-related Employment and Support Allowance, Pension Credit and Universal Credit will be eligible for the discount – the same group of claimants as last winter. The confirmation follows the government's earlier announcement that the scheme will continue through to 2030/31.
Who qualifies for the £150 Warm Home Discount
The Warm Home Discount is available to households receiving means-tested benefits, including Pension Credit, Universal Credit and Housing Benefit. Eligible customers on pre-payment meters who use a key or card to top up must also ensure their household's account is registered in their name to receive the discount.
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.”
Expansion of the scheme and government commitment
Fahnbulleh added: “Almost a million more families with children received the £150 Warm Home Discount last winter, after we expanded 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.”
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. Last year's Budget has taken an average £150 of costs off energy bills, which is factored into bills for the years to come.
Warm Homes Plan and future regulations
The Warm Homes Plan will also reduce energy use, lower bills for millions of households and help lift households out of fuel poverty. The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) said: “The Government will lay regulations for the next scheme period to ensure the regulations are in force ahead of winter 2026/27. This will enable the continuation of the scheme without interruption, securing continued support for around 6 million low-income and vulnerable households next winter and providing certainty for suppliers and delivery partners.”
