DWP Giving People On Six Benefits A Free £150 Payment In October
This winter, millions more families across the UK will receive crucial help with their rising energy bills.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has officially expanded the Warm Home Discount, ensuring that 2.7 million additional households qualify for the scheme.
In total, almost three million extra people will now be eligible for the £150 support payment.
However, one important condition applies: the household must have their name listed on the energy bill to qualify automatically.
What is the Warm Home Discount?
The Warm Home Discount is a government scheme designed to provide financial relief to struggling households during the colder months.
Eligible families and pensioners receive £150 off their electricity bills, which is either credited directly to their account or provided in the form of a voucher.
This measure helps vulnerable groups cover essential heating costs and reduces the financial pressure during winter.
Expanded Eligibility for Winter 2025–2026
The government’s recent update means more people than ever will now be included in the scheme. The key benefits connected to this discount are:
- Housing Benefit
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Income Support
- Pension Credit (Guarantee Credit and Savings Credit)
- Universal Credit
Eligibility in England and Wales
If you live in England or Wales and claim any of the above means-tested benefits, your household will now automatically qualify for the £150 Warm Home Discount.
Eligibility in Scotland
For households in Scotland, the rules differ slightly. If you receive Pension Credit Guarantee Credit and your name (or your partner’s/legal representative’s) is on the electricity bill, the discount will be applied automatically.
How Will the Discount Be Applied?
The way you receive the discount depends on the type of electricity meter in your home:
| Meter Type | How You Receive the £150 | When You Receive It |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Credit / Smart Prepayment Meter | £150 will be automatically added as credit to your electricity account | Between October 2025 and March 2026 |
| Traditional Prepayment Meter | You will receive a top-up voucher (via post, email, or text). Some customers may be issued a cheque instead. | Between October 2025 and March 2026 |
Important Notes for Prepayment Meters
- You have 90 days to redeem the voucher.
- If the voucher expires or gets lost, your supplier can reissue it upon request.
Government’s Statement on the Expansion
Labour’s Minister for Energy Consumers, Miatta Fahnbulleh, highlighted the government’s determination to support families during the cost-of-living crisis.
She said:
“We took decisive action earlier this year to expand the Warm Home Discount, giving more working families certainty and peace of mind before winter.
I want as many eligible households as possible to get £150 off their energy bills, putting more money in their pockets as part of our Plan for Change.”
She also urged people to spread awareness of the scheme, encouraging friends and family to check if their names are on the electricity bill to avoid missing out.
Why This Expansion Matters
The UK continues to face high living costs, especially around energy bills.
Although inflation has eased since the height of the crisis, energy prices remain above pre-pandemic levels. Expanding this scheme is intended to:
- Provide financial relief to struggling families.
- Support low-income pensioners who rely heavily on heating during colder months.
- Reduce fuel poverty by helping vulnerable groups keep their homes warm.
- Offer peace of mind during the most expensive season for households.
Steps to Ensure You Qualify Automatically
To make sure your household benefits from this scheme, you should:
- Check your electricity bill – ensure your name (or your partner’s) is on the account.
- Confirm your benefits – households on Housing Benefit, ESA, JSA, Income Support, Pension Credit, or Universal Credit will automatically qualify.
- Look out for notifications – your supplier or the DWP may send you confirmation letters, emails, or texts about your eligibility.
- Redeem vouchers on time – if you’re on a traditional prepayment meter, don’t forget the 90-day redemption rule.
Key Timeline for Payments
- Start date: October 2025
- End date: March 2026
- Payments will be made automatically; most households will not need to apply separately.
The expansion of the Warm Home Discount scheme means nearly three million additional households will benefit from £150 off their energy bills this winter.
With the rising cost of living still putting pressure on families, this measure provides essential financial support and helps vulnerable households stay warm during the colder months.
To ensure you don’t miss out, make sure your name is on your electricity bill and stay alert for any communication from your energy supplier.
Whether through automatic credits or vouchers, this support is a vital lifeline for millions across the UK.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the £150 Warm Home Discount?
Households receiving Housing Benefit, ESA, JSA, Income Support, Pension Credit, or Universal Credit in England and Wales automatically qualify. In Scotland, eligibility applies to Pension Credit Guarantee Credit claimants listed on the bill.
How will I receive the £150?
If you’re on a standard credit or smart prepayment meter, the money will be credited directly to your account. For traditional prepayment meters, you’ll get a voucher or occasionally a cheque.
What happens if I lose my voucher or forget to redeem it?
You have 90 days to use your voucher. If it is lost or expires, your energy supplier can reissue it so you don’t miss out.
