The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has alerted eligible UK households about the opportunity to receive a £150 discount through the Warm Home Discount Scheme this winter. As the Met Office forecasts a significant drop in temperatures next week, many families are preparing to turn on their heating for the first time this season. With recent increases in energy bills, the prospect of higher costs is causing concern among households.
Energy prices rose last month due to the new price cap set for the period from October to December 2025. This cap increased by 2%, bringing the average annual bill for a typical household paying by direct debit to approximately £1,755. In light of these rising costs, the DWP has emphasized that financial assistance is available for those who qualify.
“Have you heard about the Warm Home Discount Scheme? If you’re eligible, the £150 credit will be automatically applied to your electricity account,” the DWP stated on social media platform X. According to the official information on GOV.UK, the discount will not be deposited directly into bank accounts; instead, it will be credited to electricity bills by energy suppliers.
Eligibility criteria vary based on location. In England and Wales, households may qualify if they receive the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit or are classified as low income. In Scotland, those on a low income must apply directly through their energy supplier to receive the discount.
The DWP has also issued a warning regarding potential scams related to the Warm Home Discount Scheme. They cautioned that individuals should be wary of unsolicited calls requesting personal information to apply for the discount. The Department for Energy Security and Net-Zero has confirmed reports of fraudulent texts that attempt to collect bank details under the guise of the scheme. Individuals are advised to ignore these messages and report any suspicious activity.
The recent expansion of the program means an additional 2.7 million households are now eligible for the Warm Home Discount, bringing the total number of beneficiaries to over six million. These households will benefit from a reduction in their energy bills without needing to submit an application, providing vital financial relief during the winter months.
As temperatures continue to drop, it is essential for eligible households to take advantage of the support available to them, ensuring they can keep their homes warm without undue financial strain.
