Pension Credit, Household Support Fund and more help if you're struggling with energy bills

With energy bills rising and many households facing the loss of vital help, we look at all the energy help that's available this Winter.

Millions of households are facing a brutal Winter as energy prices soar just as vital Government help is scaled back.

Average annual energy bills rose 10% or £149 this month after Ofgem increased the Energy Price Cap.

Against this backdrop of rising prices, the Government has made the controversial decision to scrap the Winter Fuel Payment – worth up to £300 – for the majority of pensioners.

What's more, this Winter will also be the first since 2021 that millions of poorer households will not receive a Cost of Living Payment – also worth around £300 – after the scheme concluded earlier this year.

Get help if you're struggling

With such a challenging Winter ahead, it's vital you take steps to keep on top of your bills. 

For example, you could check today whether there are any fixed-rate energy tariffs that would allow you to lock into a rate that's cheaper than the increased Energy Price Cap that kicks in tomorrow.

You should also take all the practical steps you can to reduce your energy usage, keeping costs down during the high-usage colder months.

But the reality is that many households will find it difficult, if not impossible, to keep on top of bills over the Winter no matter what steps they take. 

If you're among them, it's vital you claim all the help you're eligible for.

The good news is there are still a number of schemes out there that could help.  

Pension Credit

The first source of help is Pension Credit, which provides extra money to help with living costs for those over the State Pension age and who are on a low income.

Crucially, it’s estimated that 880,000 eligible pensioners are missing out on this boost, worth up to £3,900 per year.

This is because they’re either unaware it exists or wrongly assume they won’t be eligible for payments.

As well as a weekly income of £218.15 if you’re single (£332 for couples) it gives you access to other benefits, such as help with housing costs and heating bills.

Helpfully, anyone who claims this Credit will also ensure they don't lose their Winter Fuel Payments.

You can learn more about Pension Credit, including how it works, who is eligible and how to apply in this guide. 

Warm Home Discount Scheme 

The Warm Home Discount Scheme provides a one-off £150 discount on the electricity bills of eligible customers.

You qualify if you receive the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit or are on a low income and have high energy costs.

It’s only available to customers in England, Wales and Scotland. Not those in Northern Ireland, which has the Affordable Warmth Scheme.

It is set to reopen in October. 

Household Support Fund

You may receive help with essential costs from your local council. It’s aimed at anyone who can’t pay for the essentials and doesn’t depend on whether you are on benefits.

This scheme provides funding to local authorities to help those most in need by covering the cost of energy, food and water.

A £421 million extension to the fund was recently announced. This will take the financial support available up until April 2025. 

You’ll need to contact your local authority to determine eligibility.

Cold Weather Payment

You may get Cold Weather Payments if you receive certain benefits or Support for Mortgage Interest.

The 2024 to 2025 scheme is due to start at the beginning of November. If you’re eligible, you’ll receive them automatically. There’s no need to apply.

Separately, you can also apply for help with making energy-saving improvements to your home if you live in social housing or receive certain benefits.

These include the Great British Insulation Scheme for those whose homes have specific energy performance certificates and Council Tax bands. You can find out more information here.