Financial advisors are sounding the alarm to UK homeowners, with a stark warning: ‘check or miss out.” It comes as the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) revives its £150 Warm Home Discount (WHD) scheme.
An estimated three million households stand to gain from the scheme re-opening, the government agency says.
Beginning in 2011, the WHD scheme imposes a legal duty on licensed gas and electricity suppliers to extend support to individuals on low incomes. It specifically targets the most vulnerable, such as those at higher risk of cold-related illnesses, who live solo, or mainly in fuel poverty situations.
The initiative offers a one-off £150 discount on electricity bills for those on low-income or in receipt of Pension Credit.
Fuel poverty in England is gauged by the ‘Low Income Low Energy Efficiency’ (LILEE) standard, characterising fuel poverty as a predicament faced by certain households.
According to Your NRG, energy experts state that the £150 discount is credited straight to the energy supplier, not the individual, guaranteeing credit is applied to cut down energy expenses.
A spokesperson went on to say: “Eligibility rules changed in 2022, meaning some people who previously qualified may no longer be eligible, while others might now need to apply if they don’t automatically receive the discount.”
As the nation braves the bitter winter season, experts underscore the significance for households to check if they’re eligible for energy support schemes.
The spokesperson stated: “It’s crucial that households check their energy provider’s website to confirm when the scheme opens and if they need to take any action. If your supplier provides both gas and electricity, you may even be able to apply the £150 to your gas bill instead – just check with them once the scheme is live.”
For households using prepayment meters, the money will arrive in the form of a voucher for topping up the meter, ensuring everyone can benefit.
The spokesperson said: “For those using Pay As You Go or Prepayment meters, the support will come as a voucher that can be used to top up your meter. This ensures that even customers not on credit accounts can still access this critical help.
“In regions like Scotland, additional financial relief is available through benefits such as the Winter Heating Payment and Child Winter Heating Payment, amounting to £58.75 and £151.50 respectively, targeting low-income and disabled families,
“Additionally, people in Scotland should be aware of the £58.75 Winter Heating Payment and the £151.50 Child Winter Heating Payment, which could provide further support to low-income and disabled households.”
They also clarified that eligible recipients of these payments wouldn’t have to apply; rather, they’d be informed via post anytime from October 2024 to January 2025, specifying their eligibility and whether further actions are required.
A vital reminder was issued for beneficiaries to act swiftly to avoid missing out on the £150 credit due to deadlines by February 28, 2025, especially in light of the looming 10% rise in the energy price cap this month.
They added: “If you are eligible, you’ll get it automatically and you should receive a letter between October, 2024, and January, 2025, explaining your status and whether you need to take further action.
“If you do not get this letter by January, check with your supplier or the WHD helpline. Don’t wait until it’s too late, as you may miss out on the £150 credit if action isn’t taken by February 28, 2025. With the energy price cap set to rise by 10% this month, it’s more important than ever to ensure you’re accessing all available support.”
This scheme could be a lifeline for individuals who rely on the Guarantee Credit part of Pension Credit or those grappling with high energy bills on a limited income. It’s crucial to check the eligibility requirements and get in touch with your provider to confirm your status.
If your energy supplier provides both gas and electricity and you meet the criteria, you might be able to get a discount on your gas bill instead. Contact your supplier for more information.
