Millions of households across the UK are receiving a crucial financial boost this winter to help with soaring energy costs. The government's Warm Home Discount (WHD) scheme is providing a one-off payment of £150 directly towards heating bills for eligible families and pensioners.
Who Qualifies for the Payment?
The scheme has been significantly expanded for the winter of 2025/26. Every single household claiming Universal Credit now qualifies for the support, marking a major change from previous years. This expansion is expected to bring vital help to many more low-income families.
In addition, the scheme continues to support low-income retirees. Those receiving the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit remain eligible, as they have been in the past.
How and When Will the Discount Be Applied?
The £150 is not paid directly to individuals. Instead, energy suppliers apply the one-off discount as a credit to the customer's energy account or provide a top-up voucher. The exact method depends on your supplier.
The discount window runs from November 2025 until 31 March 2026. Energy companies decide the specific timing within this period. According to British Gas, most qualifying customers should have received their discount before January 2026.
If you are eligible, you do not need to apply; the discount should be applied automatically by your energy provider.
A Wider Context of Energy Bill Support
This targeted support comes alongside broader government action on energy costs. The Labour government has also announced that average energy bills will fall by £150 for all households from April 2026, providing further relief.
The Warm Home Discount provides immediate, targeted help during the coldest months, a period when energy usage and bills are typically at their highest. For many vulnerable and low-income households, this £150 reduction can make a significant difference in managing the ongoing cost-of-living pressures.
Households who believe they qualify but have not yet seen the discount applied are advised to wait until the end of the application window in March before contacting their energy supplier for clarification.
