Britain’s state pensioners are poised to receive an “automatic” £150 uplift to their energy bill funds. Originating from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), the Warm Home Discount scheme is designed to directly discount electricity bills for vulnerable households whose energy suppliers are enrolled in the program.
Commencing in October with the first payments introduced in November, most qualifying homes are likely to have a received a letter confirming their entitlement up until now, which spells out the details of their discount.
The reduction isn’t issued as cash but is seamlessly subtracted from energy bills instead. Nevertheless, the precise timing of this discount is dependent on the provider, and all rebates must be completed by March 2025.
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Households are encouraged to stay vigilant as some might need to actively claim the discount if they consider themselves eligible but haven’t yet received it—this may involve providing extra information to the DWP. The DWP has stated: “If you’re eligible, your electricity supplier will apply the discount to your bill by 31 March 2025.”
For those who have to submit additional details, they should reach out to the helpline by 28 February 2025 to secure their payment. Amid alterations last year to the Winter Fuel Payment eligibility requirements, the Government remained committed to backing the Warm Home Discount, reports the Express.
Who is eligible for the Warm Home Discount?
Eligibility for the Warm Home Discount is open to residents of England and Wales who are served by participating energy suppliers, and includes those who either:
Eligibility for low-income benefits such as Universal Credit, Income Support, Housing Benefit, and Tax Credits may open the door to the Warm Home Discount scheme for those residing in Scotland, provided their energy supplier participates. The list of suppliers involved in the scheme includes several key players.
Additionally, if a person’s electricity supplier ceases operations, they might still qualify for the discount. GOV.UK states: “Ofgem will appoint a new supplier for you. Check with your new supplier if you’re eligible for the discount.”