Two schemes offering support with energy bills
There are two schemes offering help with energy costs (people may qualify for both).
Automatically paid to the bank accounts of everyone in receipt of state pension (over 66) sometime in November or December (no need to apply). If an individual has income over £35k, the equivalent amount of the WFP will be clawed back soon after through their tax code.
Single people
- Single pensioners will get £200 if under 80 and £300 if over 80.
Couples
- If both people are pensioners and both are under 80 they will receive £100 each (£200 in total).
- If both are over 80 they will get £150 each (£300 in total).
- A mixed age couple will receive £100 if under 80 and £200 if over 80 (£300 in total).
Warm Home Discount (WHD)
Only paid to people on means-tested benefits.
Anyone in receipt of Guaranteed Pension Credit will automatically receive a credit to their electricity bill supplier amounting to £150. Payment will be made between October 2025 and March 2026.
People in receipt of other means-tested benefits such as Universal Credit, Housing Benefit, Savings Pension Credit etc. may still qualify for the WHD under the Broader Group definition but will need to apply to their energy supplier directly, as each company has different eligibility criteria.
People residing in park/mobile homes with council tax liability will need to apply through the Charis Grant website.
If anyone is struggling with their energy costs, they could contact their own energy supplier (many have their own hardship fund) or Warm and Well North Yorkshire on 01609 767555.
More information about the Winter Fuel Payment and Warm Home Discount can be found on the Money Saving Expert website.