State pensioners across the United Kingdom are being urged to make a single phone call this month to secure a vital £150 reduction on their winter electricity bills. This financial support forms a key part of the government's Warm Home Discount Scheme, administered by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ).
Who Qualifies for the £150 Support?
The eligibility rules differ depending on where you live in Great Britain. The scheme is open to households in England, Wales, and Scotland, but the way you apply and the specific criteria can vary.
In England and Wales, state pensioners who are the named bill payer and receive the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit should qualify automatically. Other households may be eligible if they receive certain means-tested benefits, including:
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA)
- Income Support
- Universal Credit
- Housing Benefit
The discount is not paid as cash; instead, your energy supplier will apply a one-off £150 reduction directly to your electricity bill by 31 March 2026.
Act Before the February Deadline
Most eligible people in England and Wales should have received a confirmation letter between late October 2025 and early January 2026. If you believe you qualify but have not had a letter by early January, you must take action.
You have until 28 February 2026 to contact the Warm Home Discount Scheme helpline to claim your discount. The DESNZ has issued a clear warning: "Contact the Warm Home Discount Scheme if you do not get a letter by early January 2026 and you think you're eligible. You must contact them before 28 February 2026."
The dedicated helpline number is 0800 030 9322. For those who cannot hear or speak on the phone, use Relay UK by dialling 18001 then 0800 229 4325.
Important Differences for Scottish Households
The process in Scotland is distinct. Energy suppliers north of the border set their own criteria for the scheme. Therefore, Scottish pensioners cannot apply through the central Warm Home Discount helpline.
If you live in Scotland, you will not receive a letter from the scheme. Instead, you must contact your electricity supplier directly to check if you meet their eligibility requirements and to learn how to apply. The discount will still be credited by the end of March 2026 if you are successful.
A wide range of energy providers are participating in the initiative. Major suppliers like British Gas, EDF, E.ON Next, Octopus Energy, ScottishPower, and Shell Energy are included, alongside many smaller companies such as Utilita, Good Energy, and Outfox the Market.
For those in England and Wales who have already received their eligibility letter, no further action is needed—the £150 will be applied automatically. However, if your letter requests you to confirm details, ensure you call the helpline before the February cutoff.
This urgent call to action is a crucial reminder for pensioners and vulnerable households to secure this essential support during the colder months, helping to alleviate the ongoing pressure of high energy costs.
