Written by: Emma Hynes, Communications Officer
The Warm Home Discount is a government-backed scheme which gives eligible households a one-off discount of £150 on their winter electricity bills.
How does it work?
If you are eligible, you should get a letter between late October 2026 and early January 2027. Some people will receive a letter asking them for more information first.
If you have not been contacted by early January 2027, please visit the Warm Home Discount Scheme website.
Your electricity supplier will automatically take the money off your bill by 31 March 2027. If you use a prepayment electricity meter, you may be given a voucher.
Who gets the discount?
This year, it is easier to get the discount as you do not need to complete a form or prove that your home is expensive to heat.
Instead, you may qualify if these criteria applied to you on 23 August 2026:
- Your energy supplier is part of the scheme
- You (or your partner) get certain means-tested benefits
- Your name (or your partner’s) is on the electricity bill
The means-tested benefits which can make you eligible are:
- Universal Credit
- Housing Benefit
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Pension Credit
You may also get the discount if you recently started receiving benefits and your payments have been backdated to 23 August 2026 or an earlier date.
Will it impact my benefits?
The discount will not change your benefits, Cold Weather Payment or Winter Fuel Payment, Council Tax reductions or social care entitlement.
What if I use gas or solar energy?
If the same supplier provides your gas and electricity, you can ask them to move the discount to your gas. If you use two suppliers, the discount can only be applied to your electricity.
If you have solar panels or use community energy, contact the supplier who provides your bills for more information.
What if I’m moving?
If your new home is in England and Wales, make sure your electricity supplier from 23 August 2026 has your new address. If you are moving outside of England and Wales, please seek further advice.
What if I need more support?
The Warm Home Discount is not the only way of getting help this winter. Most energy suppliers offer a range of extra support, particularly if you have joined the Priority Services Register.
We’re here to help
If you are worried about staying warm, please contact us as soon as possible.
We can give you advice about managing your money, find out which benefits and grants you are entitled to, or take urgent action if your home has no power.