As the cost of living continues to rise, UK households are being offered a helping hand in the form of a £150 energy voucher under the Warm Home Discount Scheme.
This government initiative helps qualifying households reduce their winter electricity bills, but not everyone receives it automatically.
If you’re eligible, acting quickly could mean the difference between receiving this support or missing out.
What is the Warm Home Discount Scheme?
The Warm Home Discount is a government-backed program that offers a £150 one-time credit towards electricity costs during the colder months. The discount is:
- Applied directly to your electricity account, or
- Issued as a voucher if you use a traditional prepayment meter
This isn’t cash to spend—it directly offsets your energy costs.
Who Is Eligible for the £150 Voucher?
To qualify, households fall into one of two core groups:
Core Group 1 – Pensioners (Automatic Payment)
You’re eligible if:
- You received Pension Credit Guarantee Credit on 11 August 2024
- Your energy supplier is part of the scheme
- You’ll receive a letter between October 2024 and January 2025
No application needed
Core Group 2 – Low-Income Households
You may qualify if:
- You receive Universal Credit, Income Support, Housing Benefit, JSA, or ESA
- Your home has high energy costs based on a government model
- Your name (or your partner’s) is on the electricity bill
In England and Wales, eligibility is determined automatically through DWP data matching.
In Scotland, you must apply manually via your energy supplier before 28 July 2025.
Where and How to Use the £150 Voucher
Depending on your energy setup, usage will vary:
| Meter Type | How You’ll Receive the Discount |
|---|---|
| Standard Credit/Direct Debit | Credit applied automatically to your account |
| Smart Prepayment Meter | Credit sent to your meter by your supplier |
| Traditional Prepayment Meter | Voucher sent via post, text, or email — redeem at PayPoint/Post Office |
Vouchers usually expire after 90 days. Contact your supplier for a replacement if lost or expired.
Important Deadlines to Remember
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Qualifying Benefit Date | 11 August 2024 |
| Letters Sent (Core Group 1) | October 2024 – January 2025 |
| Scotland Application Deadline | 28 July 2025 |
| Voucher/Credit Applied By | 31 March 2025 |
If you think you’re eligible but haven’t heard by mid-January 2025, call the support line at 0800 030 9322.
What If You Haven’t Received Your Voucher Yet?
- Check your post and email for a voucher
- Log into your energy supplier’s website
- Call the helpline if you believe you’ve been missed
- In Scotland, visit your supplier’s site and apply directly
Extra Support Available
If you need additional help, you may qualify for the Household Support Fund. This offers:
- Food or fuel vouchers
- Emergency payments
- Essential household items (e.g., fridges, beds)
Ask your local council or visit Gov.uk to apply.
Tips to Avoid Missing Out
- Keep your supplier account updated
- Notify them if you move or switch suppliers
- You can claim this alongside the Winter Fuel Payment and Cold Weather Payment
The £150 Warm Home Discount voucher is more than just seasonal help—it’s a lifeline for millions dealing with the burden of rising energy costs.
Whether you’re a pensioner or a low-income household, understanding the eligibility criteria, how to claim, and how to use the voucher ensures you don’t miss this essential support.
With deadlines approaching, now is the time to act and secure your energy discount before it’s gone.
FAQs
What if my energy supplier isn’t part of the scheme?
You won’t be eligible for the discount. Check the government’s list of participating suppliers or consider switching to one that is.
Can I use the £150 voucher for gas bills?
No. The £150 voucher only applies to electricity bills, not gas or other utilities.
Can I still qualify if I move house after qualifying?
Yes, but you must inform your new energy supplier and ensure you’re still listed on the electricity bill.