Help with your energy bills in winter

Find out if you’re eligible for help with your energy bills from these government and supplier schemes.

Image of a women wearing a scarf at night

Winter can be tough, especially when household expenses increase. But there are a number of ways you can seek help to cover the costs. Find out more about what’s available and if you’re eligible. 

Winter Fuel Payments

Need help with winter costs? Applying for a Winter Fuel Payment could give you access to a contribution of £100-£300 to put towards heating your home in winter.

Are you eligible?

You could be eligible for Winter Fuel Payments if you:

  • Were born on or before 5th August 1953
  • Receive the State Pension or another eligible social security benefit.

Find out more and how to apply via the government website.

Warm Home Discount

For a one-off discount on your energy bills, the Warm Home Discount could help. It gives you £140 off your winter electricity bill between September and March each year. Plus, you could get the discount on gas and electricity if you have the same supplier for both.

Are you eligible?

If your energy supplier is part of the Warm Home Discount scheme, then there are two ways to qualify:

  1. You’re on a low income and you meet the relevant criteria with your energy supplier.
  2. You have a Guarantee Credit as part of your Pension Credit.

To find out more and how to apply contact your energy supplier or visit the government website.

Cold Weather Payment

The Cold Weather Payment supports those who live in an area that is subject to very cold weather over winter. These are local grants, and if you’re eligible you could get £25 for each seven-day period of freezing weather.

Are you eligible?

You can apply for a Cold Weather Payment if the average temperature where you live is forecast to be, or falls below zero degrees Celsius for seven days in a row, and you receive one of these benefits:

  • Pension Credit
  • Income Support
  • Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
  • Universal Credit
  • Support for Mortgage Interest.

To find out more and how to apply contact your energy supplier or visit the government website.

Help to pay energy debts

If you’re behind with your household energy bills, you could apply for a grant to help pay them back.

Energy suppliers offering grants:

Are you eligible?

The criteria for eligibility will vary from one supplier to another. When applying, you’ll most likely need to provide details about your financial situation.

Contact your current energy supplier direct and ask what support they can offer you.

Help to make your home more energy efficient

There are a number of government grants that can help you make your home more energy efficient – and save you money.

Find out more about energy saving schemes for your home.

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