Around six million households risk losing a £150 energy bill discount this winter unless they verify that their name is registered on their electricity account before an upcoming deadline. Energy suppliers will check customer records on Sunday 23 August to determine who qualifies for the Government’s Warm Home Discount scheme, leaving qualifying consumers with less than two weeks to act.
The urgency comes as households face renewed pressure from rising energy costs. A 13 per cent rise in household bills was recorded this summer, and further hikes are anticipated before the year concludes.
Eligible households include those receiving means-tested benefits. In England and Wales, the Warm Home Discount is available to individuals who receive housing benefit, income-related employment and support allowance, pension credit, or universal credit.
For qualifying households, the £150 credit should be applied by default, provided the individual who receives the benefit is also listed on the electricity bill. Suppliers with a customer base exceeding 1,000 provide this rebate automatically, but only if the eligible person is named on the utility account.
Common reasons why someone’s name might not appear on their electricity account include having recently moved home. Customers using a card or key to top up pre-payment meters must also verify that their name is registered on the account. Anyone whose name is missing should contact their supplier before the deadline, as a simple phone call could be enough to make sure they receive the £150 discount.
Did You Know? The winter 2026-27 scheme involves more than 20 energy suppliers, ranging from major firms such as British Gas, EDF, E.ON Next, Octopus Energy, OVO, ScottishPower and Utilita, to smaller companies including Boost, Ecotricity, Good Energy and Outfox Energy.
Scotland operates under different regulations, where approximately 250,000 low-income households will receive the rebate automatically for the first time this winter.
In Scotland, eligibility may be granted to households receiving pension credit, specific premiums linked to employment and support allowance, or particular universal credit elements associated with a disability or child. Households may also be eligible if they have a child under five and the claimant is unemployed.
Energy Secretary Miatta Fahnbulleh said: “Families will be worried about their energy bills this winter and our focus is on giving them breathing space, as we continue to work to bring down bills.” She added that almost a million more families with children received the £150 Warm Home Discount last winter, after the scheme expanded.
She urged the public to spread the word, stating: “If you know someone who might benefit, please start spreading the word and encourage them to check they are named on their energy bill.”
Beyond providing the immediate discount, the program also assists suppliers in offering extra support, such as structured repayment plans, to customers struggling with energy debt.
The government announced earlier this year that the Warm Home Discount will be extended until 2030/31, providing long-term security for qualifying households. This sits alongside the broader Warm Homes Plan, which aims to cut energy consumption and help lift households out of fuel poverty.
Following a 13 per cent surge in household energy costs this summer, millions of consumers will learn what to expect later this month when Ofgem announces the quarterly price cap for the three-month period starting in October. The previous year’s Budget also lowered average energy bills by £150, and these savings remain integrated into future billing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who qualifies for the Warm Home Discount in England and Wales?
The Warm Home Discount is available to those who receive income-related employment and support allowance, housing benefit, pension credit or universal credit.
What do I need to do before 23 August?
Anyone whose name is not registered on their electricity account should contact their supplier before the deadline. A simple phone call could be enough to make sure they receive the £150 discount.
Are pre-payment meter customers eligible?
Customers who use a key or card to top up pre-payment meters are also required to confirm that their name is registered on the account.
What steps are you taking to review your household utility accounts ahead of the upcoming winter deadline?
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