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Warm Home Discount — £150 Off Your Energy Bill

The Warm Home Discount is a £150 one-off discount on your electricity bill. Many eligible people don't claim because they don't know about it or think they won't qualify.

2 min readLast reviewed: March 2026

Who Qualifies

Core Group (Automatic)

If you receive the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit, you should receive the discount automatically — you don't need to apply.

Broader Group (Application Required)

You may qualify if you:

  • Receive certain means-tested benefits (Universal Credit, ESA, JSA, Income Support)
  • Live in a property with high energy costs
  • Meet your energy supplier's specific criteria

Each supplier has a limited number of discounts, so apply early when the scheme opens.

When to Apply

The scheme typically opens between October and March each year. Applications are on a first-come, first-served basis, so apply as soon as it opens.

How to Apply

  1. 1Check your energy supplier's website for their WHD application
  2. 2You'll need your account number and benefit reference
  3. 3Most applications can be completed online or by phone
  4. 4If approved, £150 is credited directly to your electricity account

Other Energy Help

SupportAmountWho Qualifies
Warm Home Discount£150Low income / Pension Credit
Winter Fuel Payment£100–£300State Pension age
Cold Weather Payment£25/weekCertain benefits during cold spells
Energy Company Hardship FundVariesAnyone in fuel poverty

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to apply every year?

If you're in the Core Group (Pension Credit), the discount should be applied automatically. For the Broader Group, you may need to reapply each year.

Can I get the discount with a pre-payment meter?

Yes. If you have a pre-payment meter, the discount can be applied as credit to your meter or sent as a voucher.

Sources & Further Reading

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This page provides general information only and is not financial or legal advice. For personalised guidance, consider contacting StepChange (0800 138 1111) or Citizens Advice (0800 144 8848).