Overview
- Letters are landing this week in England and Wales to confirm the discount, with all entitled households to be notified before January.
- The scheme now covers about six million households after a 2.7 million expansion, as the energy price cap rose 2% on 1 October to £1,755 for a typical bill.
- For most recipients the £150 will be deducted automatically, but some must call the helpline and provide an electricity bill or statement to verify the account.
- Eligibility in England and Wales requires receipt of specified means-tested benefits and being named on the electricity bill.
- Separate support continues: DWP will pay £100–£300 Winter Fuel Payments automatically in November and December in England and Wales (reclaimed via tax if income exceeds £35,000), while Scotland operates a Pension Age Winter Heating Payment and has different Warm Home Discount application rules.