'Don't wait!' Britons urged to check eligibility for £150 energy bill discount

Older men reading form and older woman using radiator

Britons are being urged to check their eligibility for the Warm Home Discount

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Patrick O'Donnell

By Patrick O'Donnell


Published: 05/10/2024

- 04:00

The Warm Home Discount is vital energy bill support for low income households

Households across the UK are being urged to check their eligibility for the £150 Warm Home Discount scheme ahead of a set deadline.

The scheme, designed to provide relief during colder months, offers a one-off discount on electricity bills for those on low incomes or receiving Pension Credit.


This is a benefit payment for pensioners administered by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

According to the Government department, approximately three million households are expected to benefit from this energy bill support.

However, eligibility rules changed in 2022, meaning some previous recipients may no longer qualify, whilst others might now need to apply.

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Woman doing finances and energy bill

Energy bills are expected to rise this winter

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The £150 credit is paid directly to energy providers, ensuring it goes towards reducing energy costs. Households may be able to apply the discount to their gas bill instead if their supplier provides both gas and electricity.

Experts from Your NRG have emphasised the importance of checking your eligibility for the Warm Home Discount.

"It's crucial that households check their energy provider's website to confirm when the scheme opens and if they need to take any action," they explained.

"If you haven't received a letter by January, check with your supplier or the WHD helpline. Don't wait until it's too late, as you may miss out on the £150 credit if action isn't taken by February."

For those using Pay As You Go or Prepayment meters, the support will come as a voucher to top up the meter. This ensures customers not on credit accounts can still access this critical help

In Scotland, additional support is available through the £58.75 Winter Heating Payment and the £151.50 Child Winter Heating Payment for low-income and disabled households.

With energy costs on the rise, checking eligibility for the Warm Home Discount has become increasingly important, according to NRG experts.

The group added: "With the energy price cap set to rise by 10 per cent this month, it's more important than ever to ensure you're accessing all available support

Person looks at energy bill while on the phoneThe Warm Home Discount Scheme offers a £150 one-off discount for qualifying people on a low income GETTY

It's essential to note that the money is paid directly to the energy provider, not the individual.

This ensures the credit goes towards reducing energy costs effectively.

Your NRG experts advise: "Make sure to check the eligibility criteria and reach out to your provider to confirm your status."

The deadline to apply for this year's discount is February 28, 2025.

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