Millions of families to get £150 off energy bills - how to claim

This winter, more than 250,000 families will get letters confirming £150 off their energy bills. The Warm Home Discount is usually applied automatically if you qualify, but some households will need to provide additional information to get this support.

Last year, the government expanded the Warm Home Discount to everyone who is on means-tested benefits. As a result, around six million households will benefit this year, including 900,000 more families with children.

Who gets the £150 discount?

You could be eligible if you live in England or Wales and receive one of these benefits:

• housing benefit
• income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
• income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
• income support
• Pension Credit (Guarantee Credit or Savings Credit)
• Universal Credit

You must also be named on your electricity bill.

If you live in Scotland, the rules are slightly different. You’ll likely get the discount automatically if you receive Pension Credit Guarantee Credit. If you get other benefits, you’ll need to apply through your energy supplier.

Do I need to do anything?

Most people won’t need to do anything. The £150 will be taken off your bill automatically.

But if you get a letter asking for more details, you’ll need to call the helpline listed in the letter. Have your electricity bill or statement ready; it should show your name and account number.

When will I get the letter?

Letters are being sent out now and will continue arriving until January. If you’re eligible, you should get one soon. It'll tell you what additional details you need to provide to claim your discount.

What if I don’t get a letter?

If you think you qualify but haven’t received a letter by January 2026, you should contact the Warm Home Discount Scheme helpline. You need to contact them before 28 February 2026, so don’t leave it too late. The contact details are on the government’s website.

Bear in mind, if you’re in Scotland and applied directly through your energy supplier, you won’t get a letter. Contact your energy supplier instead if you haven’t received the discount.