With energy bills staying high and winter just around the corner, UK households are being offered a vital £150 discount through the Warm Home Discount Scheme. This isn’t a cash payment—it’s either credit applied directly to your electricity account or a redeemable voucher if you use a traditional prepayment meter. The scheme aims to help those most at risk of fuel poverty.
In this guide, we’ll break down how the scheme works, who qualifies, how to apply (if needed), and how to make sure you don’t miss out on this valuable help.
Overview
The Warm Home Discount Scheme is a government-backed initiative launched in 2011. It’s delivered in partnership with energy suppliers to reduce winter energy costs for vulnerable households.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Discount Amount | £150 credit or voucher |
| Eligible Groups | Pensioners on Guarantee Credit, low-income households |
| Where It Applies | England, Wales, and Scotland (different rules) |
| Automatic Payments? | Yes for most, but not all |
| Prepayment Meters | Receive redeemable vouchers |
| Deadlines | Apply by 28 February 2025; credit issued by 31 March 2025 |
| Helpline | 0800 030 9322 |
| Website | gov.uk/warm-home-discount |
What Is It
The Warm Home Discount is not a cash payout. Instead, it helps reduce your winter electricity bill in one of two ways:
- Direct credit to your electricity account (if you pay monthly or by direct debit)
- Voucher for traditional prepayment meters, redeemable at Post Office or PayPoint
It’s designed to take the pressure off when heating costs rise between October and March.
Eligibility
If you receive the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit as of 11 August 2024, and your supplier is part of the scheme:
- You’ll receive a letter from October to January
- The £150 will be added to your electricity account automatically
- No application is needed
Core Group 2
If you’re on means-tested benefits like Universal Credit or Housing Benefit, you may qualify based on:
- Household income
- Energy usage
- Whether your name (or your partner’s) is on the electricity bill
In England and Wales, most of this is assessed automatically using government data.
In Scotland, you must apply manually to your supplier (first-come, first-served).
How To Use
You don’t have to do anything—the discount will be applied to your bill automatically.
Smart Prepayment Meter Users
The credit is usually added remotely to your meter.
Traditional Prepayment Meter Users
You’ll get a voucher (by post, email, or SMS). To use it:
- Take the voucher to a Post Office or PayPoint
- Bring ID and your energy key or card
- The £150 credit is applied to your meter
Note: Vouchers often expire in 90 days—don’t lose it! Contact your supplier if it expires or doesn’t arrive.
Dates To Know
- Qualifying Date: 11 August 2024
- Letters Sent: October to January
- Application Deadline (Scotland): 28 February 2025
- Discount Applied By: 31 March 2025
If you haven’t received anything by mid-January and think you qualify, call the helpline: 0800 030 9322.
Missed It?
If you think you’ve been missed:
- Check your post and email for a letter
- Log in to your energy account for updates
- Call the helpline
- In Scotland, contact your supplier to apply manually
How To Apply
You only need to apply if:
- You live in Scotland
- Your supplier requires a manual application
Steps to apply:
- Go to your energy supplier’s website
- Search “Warm Home Discount”
- Complete the form with benefit and household details
- Submit supporting documents
- Wait for confirmation
Be quick—funds are limited!
Extra Support
You can combine the Warm Home Discount with other support like:
- Winter Fuel Payment (for pensioners)
- Cold Weather Payments
- Household Support Fund (from your local council)
These may include:
- Grocery or fuel vouchers
- Emergency cash
- Help with white goods
Tips
- Update your contact details with your energy supplier
- Act early, especially if you live in Scotland
- Before switching suppliers, confirm they’re part of the scheme
- Combine benefits to maximise support this winter
The Warm Home Discount offers much-needed relief during colder months—but you have to know the rules to benefit. Whether you’re on benefits, a pensioner, or using a prepayment meter, staying informed means staying warm.
FAQs
Is the £150 Warm Home Discount automatic?
Yes, for most pensioners and some low-income groups.
How do I use the voucher?
Take it to Post Office or PayPoint with ID and energy card.
What if I haven’t received my letter?
Call 0800 030 9322 if you think you qualify but didn’t get one.
Can I still apply in Scotland?
Yes, but you must apply manually to your supplier.
Can I get other help too?
Yes, combine with Winter Fuel and Household Support Fund.
