State pensioners are set to receive a financial boost later in the year as the Warm Home Discount returns for the winter season.
This support scheme offers a £150 reduction on energy bills for some of the most financially vulnerable pensioners, helping to alleviate cost of living pressures.
The payments are distributed from November and are applied to people’s bills automatically in most instances.
Elderly individuals will qualify for the discount if they or their partner are recipients of the Guarantee Credit portion of Pension Credit.
They may also be eligible for the support if they receive the Savings Credit portion of Pension Credit, Universal Credit or Housing Benefit.
In addition to pensioners, households with low incomes and high energy costs could also stand to gain from this scheme.
Most qualifying households should expect to receive a letter between November and January informing them of their eligibility.
Labour has confirmed that the Warm Home Discount will return this winter, amidst controversy over the reduction of the Winter Fuel Payment eligibility.
In a bid to help fill a “£22billion hole” in the nation’s finances, Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced the payment will no longer be available to all pensioners in England and Wales.
Now, only those on means-tested benefits, such as Pension Credit, will qualify, affecting an estimated 10 million people.
The charity Age UK has clarified the situation regarding winter energy support, stating: “The Warm Home Discount is a one-off payment of £150 to help with the cost of energy during the winter. It’s designed to make things a bit easier if you’re living on a low income or pension.”
Eligibility for the discount was further detailed by the charity, noting: “If your electricity supplier is part of the Warm Home Discount scheme then you don’t need to apply for it you’ll get the payment automatically if you or your partner receive the Guarantee Credit portion of Pension Credit, or another qualifying benefit, and have high energy costs.”
