The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has significantly broadened its £150 Warm Home Discount program, aiming to support millions more UK households struggling with rising energy bills during the colder months.
With 2.7 million additional homes now qualifying, the 2025–2026 winter season brings expanded relief — but some conditions must be met to receive the payment automatically.
Who Is Eligible for the Warm Home Discount?
The newly expanded eligibility list covers those receiving means-tested benefits. To qualify, your name must be on the electricity bill, or that of your partner or legal representative, particularly for automatic payments.
Eligible Benefits Include
| Means-Tested DWP Benefits | Regions Covered |
|---|---|
| Housing Benefit | England, Wales |
| Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) | England, Wales |
| Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) | England, Wales |
| Income Support | England, Wales |
| Pension Credit (Guarantee Credit & Savings Credit) | UK-wide |
| Universal Credit | England, Wales |
Eligibility in Scotland
For residents of Scotland, the criteria differ slightly:
- You must be receiving Pension Credit Guarantee Credit.
- The energy account must be in your name (or your partner/legal representative).
If these conditions are met, you’ll likely receive the discount automatically.
How and When Will the £150 Be Paid?
Depending on the type of energy meter you use, the payment method varies:
For Standard Credit or Smart Prepayment Meters
- The £150 will be applied as credit on your electricity account.
- This will happen between October 2025 and March 2026.
For Traditional Prepayment Meters
- You will receive a top-up voucher.
- This can be sent via post, email, or text.
- In rare cases, a cheque may be issued instead.
Voucher Redemption
- Vouchers are valid for 90 days.
- If your voucher is lost or expires, your supplier can reissue it.
Why This Matters: Labour’s Plan for Change
According to Miatta Fahnbulleh, the Labour Party’s Minister for Energy Consumers, the Warm Home Discount expansion is part of a broader effort to fight fuel poverty.
“We took decisive action earlier this year to expand the Warm Home Discount, giving more working families certainty and peace of mind before winter,” she stated.
She emphasized the need for people to ensure their names are listed on their energy bills, and urged everyone to spread the word so that no eligible household misses out.
With energy prices remaining a burden for many households, the £150 Warm Home Discount comes as timely relief. Thanks to the Labour government’s expansion efforts, millions more can benefit — but ensuring your name is on the energy bill remains critical for automatic qualification.
Whether you’re on Universal Credit or receiving Pension Credit, double-check your eligibility now and share the news with friends and family who might benefit this winter.
FAQs
When will the £150 Warm Home Discount be applied?
For eligible customers, the payment will be issued between October 2025 and March 2026, either as credit or via voucher depending on your meter type.
What if I lose my top-up voucher or it expires?
You have 90 days to use the voucher, but your supplier can reissue it if it’s lost or no longer valid.
How can I make sure I receive the payment automatically?
Ensure your name is on the electricity bill, or that of your partner or representative, especially if you’re on a means-tested benefit.