The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has officially announced the start date for this winter’s £150 Warm Home Discount Scheme, providing vital relief to low-income households struggling with rising energy bills.
Starting August 24, 2025, eligible individuals can ensure their inclusion in this benefit, with payments expected to be applied from October to March.
What Is the Warm Home Discount?
The Warm Home Discount (WHD) is a government-backed scheme offering a £150 one-off rebate on electricity bills for qualifying households.
Rather than cash being paid directly to individuals, the money is credited to their energy supplier account, reducing monthly bills or topping up prepayment meters.
This initiative aims to combat fuel poverty and ensure vulnerable households can stay warm throughout the winter months.
Who Is Eligible for the £150 Discount?
To qualify for the 2025/26 Warm Home Discount, eligibility is determined by your circumstances on August 24, 2025. Households must either:
1. Be part of the Core Group 1:
- Receive the Guaranteed Credit element of Pension Credit
2. Be part of the Core Group 2 (low-income group):
- Receive any of the following benefits:
- Income Support
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Housing Benefit
- Universal Credit
- Savings Credit part of Pension Credit
Additionally, recipients must have high energy costs, based on factors like household size, type of property, and energy usage history.
Key Details of the 2025/26 Warm Home Discount
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Benefit Name | Warm Home Discount |
| Amount | £150 (one-off) |
| Eligibility Date | August 24, 2025 |
| Payment Method | Directly credited to energy supplier |
| When Discount Is Applied | Typically between October 2025 and March 2026 |
| Households Benefiting | Estimated 6.1 million, including 900,000 families with children |
Government’s Expansion of the Scheme
This year’s update brings good news: the government is extending the scheme to 2.7 million additional households, scrapping the unpopular “high energy cost” requirement that previously disqualified many.
Consumer champion Martin Lewis has welcomed the change, stating it eliminates unfair exclusions and makes the process more straightforward for working and non-working families alike.
How to Claim the Warm Home Discount
No formal application is needed for most recipients. If you qualify:
- Your energy supplier will apply the discount automatically.
- If your energy supplier is part of the scheme and you meet the criteria, you will receive a confirmation letter from the DWP between October and December.
- If you believe you’re eligible but don’t receive a letter, a Warm Home Discount helpline will be available to address queries.
Note: You must be with a participating energy supplier. Most major UK suppliers are involved, but always confirm.
Why This Support Matters
With energy prices remaining high and cost-of-living pressures still affecting millions, the £150 discount can help reduce financial strain on essential utilities. The scheme not only provides relief but is a preventative measure against cold-related illnesses and energy debt.
The Warm Home Discount Scheme 2025/26 provides timely support for low-income families, pensioners, and vulnerable individuals.
If you’re on a qualifying benefit as of August 24, 2025, you could be one of the 6.1 million UK households to receive £150 off your energy bills. With automatic payments and expanded eligibility, this year’s program is more inclusive and impactful than ever before.
Don’t forget to check your supplier’s participation and watch for official letters this autumn.
FAQs
When will I receive the £150 Warm Home Discount?
The discount is usually applied between October and March. Most will see the credit appear by December 2025.
Do I need to apply for the Warm Home Discount?
No, eligible households will receive the payment automatically via their energy supplier.
What if my supplier doesn’t offer the scheme?
You won’t receive the discount unless your supplier participates. It’s advised to check your supplier list or switch to an eligible provider.