The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is encouraging claimants receiving certain benefits to check whether they have missed out on the £150 Warm Home Discount and take action before the deadline at the end of this month.
This government-backed scheme helps eligible households reduce their electricity bills during the colder months. Those who qualify can receive a £150 reduction each winter, and the support is now confirmed to continue until the 2030/2031 winter season.
What Is the Warm Home Discount?
The Warm Home Discount is a government initiative that provides a £150 reduction on electricity bills for eligible low-income households. Instead of being paid directly into a bank account, the discount is applied to the customer’s energy bill.
This winter (2025/2026), around 96% of recipients in England and Wales are expected to receive the rebate automatically, without needing to submit an application. However, some individuals must take additional steps to ensure they receive the support.
Who Qualifies for the £150 Energy Bill Discount?
Households receiving specific DWP benefits may be eligible for the Warm Home Discount. These benefits include:
- Housing Benefit
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Income Support
- Pension Credit
- Universal Credit
If you receive one of these benefits and meet the scheme’s criteria, the £150 rebate should be applied to your electricity bill during the winter period.
Automatic Payments for Most Households
For the 2025/2026 winter season, the majority of qualifying households in England and Wales will receive the £150 discount automatically. Letters have been sent to eligible households confirming their entitlement.
However, a small number of customers must contact the helpline to verify their eligibility and ensure the discount is processed correctly.
If you received a letter asking you to confirm details, you must call the helpline number included in the correspondence by 27 February.
What to Do If You Haven’t Received the Discount
If you believe you qualify but have not received a letter or seen the discount applied to your energy bill, you should act quickly.
Eligible individuals must call the Warm Home Discount helpline at 0800 030 9322 before 27 February to avoid missing out.
Failing to contact the helpline by the deadline could result in losing the £150 reduction for this winter.
Scheme Extended Until 2030/2031
The government has confirmed that the Warm Home Discount will continue for another five years, running until winter 2030/2031. This extension provides long-term reassurance to millions of low-income and vulnerable households struggling with rising energy costs.
Industry Leaders Welcome the Extension
Energy UK’s Response
Ned Hammond, Deputy Director of Policy (Customers) at Energy UK, described the confirmation as positive news. He highlighted that extending the Warm Home Discount — especially following its recent expansion — will continue delivering essential assistance with energy bills to millions of customers.
He also welcomed improvements in Scotland, where more households will receive the discount automatically without having to apply.
Hammond added that Energy UK looks forward to collaborating with the government on future updates to the scheme. These could include improved targeting and tiered support, ensuring assistance reaches those who need it most and offers meaningful financial relief.
National Energy Action’s Perspective
Matt Copeland, Head of Policy and Public Affairs at National Energy Action, also praised the five-year extension. He emphasized that the continuation offers stability and reassurance for low-income households beyond the current parliamentary term.
Copeland noted that reducing energy bills directly is a crucial support mechanism, particularly for vulnerable individuals who struggle to heat their homes adequately. Combined with energy advice and broader income support initiatives, the Warm Home Discount serves as an essential lifeline during winter months.
Why This Support Matters
Energy costs remain a major financial burden for many households across the UK. For families already managing tight budgets, a £150 discount can make a meaningful difference during winter when heating usage increases significantly.
The Warm Home Discount not only reduces immediate energy expenses but also helps prevent fuel poverty — a situation where households cannot afford to keep their homes warm and safe.
With the scheme extended until 2031, eligible households can count on continued assistance during challenging economic conditions.
Conclusion
The DWP’s reminder is clear: if you believe you qualify for the £150 Warm Home Discount but have not received confirmation, act before 27 February. While most eligible households will receive the rebate automatically, a small number must call the helpline to secure their discount.
With the scheme now extended until winter 2030/2031, millions of households will continue to benefit from vital support in managing energy costs. Checking your eligibility and responding promptly ensures you do not miss out on this valuable winter assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the £150 Warm Home Discount paid directly into my bank account?
No. The £150 is applied directly to your electricity bill rather than paid as cash.
2. Do I need to apply every year?
Most eligible households receive the discount automatically. However, some may need to confirm details by contacting the helpline.
3. What is the deadline to call if I think I’m eligible?
You must call 0800 030 9322 by 27 February to ensure your eligibility is reviewed.