Warm Home Discount Guide
Everything you need to know about the £150 Warm Home Discount Scheme, eligibility criteria, and how to apply for Winter 2024/2025.
Understanding the Warm Home Discount
The Warm Home Discount is a government-backed scheme that provides a one-off discount on your electricity bill during the winter months. This guide breaks down who is eligible, how the two groups work, and what you need to do to claim it.
What is the Warm Home Discount?
A £150 boost to help with winter energy costs.
The Warm Home Discount Scheme provides a one-off £150 discount on your electricity bill between October and March. It is not a cash payment; the money is deducted directly from your energy bill. If you are on a dual-fuel tariff (gas and electricity) with the same supplier, you may be able to request that the discount is applied to your gas bill instead.
The scheme is divided into two main categories: the ‘Core Group’, who receive the discount automatically, and the ‘Broader Group’, who must apply directly through their energy supplier.
Eligibility Checklist
Do you qualify for the Warm Home Discount?
4 Steps to Claiming
How to secure your winter discount
Identify Your Group
Determine whether you are likely to be in the Core Group (automatic) or the Broader Group (requires application).
Core Group: Wait for Letter
If eligible, you will receive a letter between October and December confirming the discount will be applied automatically. No action is needed.
Broader Group: Apply Early
Contact your energy supplier or visit their website to apply. Funds are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
Discount Applied
The £150 will be credited to your electricity (or gas) account between October and March, reducing your overall balance.
Warm Home Discount Groups at a Glance
A summary of the different eligibility groups, who they include, and the actions required to receive the discount.
| Group | Who is Included | Action Required | Discount Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Core Group 1 | Recipients of Pension Credit Guarantee Credit. | None (Automatic) | £150 |
| Core Group 2 | Recipients of certain means-tested benefits with high energy costs. | None (Automatic, but may need to confirm details if contacted) | £150 |
| Broader Group | Low-income households meeting specific energy supplier criteria. | Must apply directly to your energy supplier | £150 (or supplier equivalent) |
Warm Home Discount FAQ
Answers to the most frequently asked questions about the Warm Home Discount Scheme, eligibility, and the application process.
The Warm Home Discount is a UK government-backed scheme that provides a one-off £150 discount on your electricity bill during the winter months (October to March). If you are on a dual-fuel tariff with the same supplier, the discount can sometimes be applied to your gas bill instead.
The Core Group is split into two categories. Core Group 1 includes individuals who receive the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit. Core Group 2 includes individuals who receive certain means-tested benefits and have high energy costs, as determined by a government scoring system.
Eligibility for the Broader Group varies by energy supplier. Generally, you must be on a low income and meet your supplier’s specific criteria. You must apply directly through your energy supplier’s website or by contacting them. Funds are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
The £150 discount is typically applied directly to your electricity bill between October and March. If you are in the Core Group, you will receive a letter between October and December confirming that the discount will be applied automatically.