Don't shiver through high energy bills this winter | Tenant news

With autumn here and winter soon upon us, many people are facing the reality of the rising cost of energy bills – but help is available.

This year, many households are feeling the pinch due to the 10% rise in energy costs in October. However, there's good news – the government offers grants and benefits that can help with bills.

Winter fuel payment

Although no longer payable to all pensioners, the winter fuel payment of £200 or £300 will continue for all pensioners in receipt of Pension Credit or other means-tested benefits. You won't need to apply for the Winter Fuel Payment if you're already receiving one of these qualifying benefits, it will be paid to you automatically and you’ll receive a letter by the end of November letting you know how much you’ll get

Pension Credit gives you extra money to help with your living costs if you’re over State Pension age and on a low income. According to the Department of Work and Pensions, Up to 760,000 families who were entitled to receive Pension Credit did not claim it in the financial year ending in 2023. This means that they were all missing out not only on their Pension Credit but this year will not receive the winter fuel payment.

If you don't receive benefits, haven’t received a letter about the fuel payment and think you may qualify for Pension Credit, check if you’re eligible to claim online here: Pension Credit: Eligibility - GOV.UK. If you are awarded pension credit you can then ensure you get the winter fuel payment.

If you think you should be getting the winter fuel payment already but are missing out you can check before March 31st, 2025 at www.gov.uk/winter-fuel-payment/eligibility.

Warm home discount scheme

Another fantastic scheme is the Warm Home Discount. This offers a one-off discount of £140 on your electricity bill between October and March each year.

If you're on Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit, income-based Jobseeker's Allowance, income-related Employment and Support Allowance, Income Support, or Universal Credit that includes an element for heating costs, you may be eligible for this scheme.  

Your energy supplier will contact you automatically if you're eligible. However, if you haven't heard from them and believe you qualify, it's worth contacting them directly. Visit www.gov.uk/the-warm-home-discount-scheme for more information on the scheme.

Cold weather payment

This isn't a yearly benefit, but a top-up payment for those experiencing particularly cold weather.  If the temperature in your area drops below freezing for seven days consecutively, you could receive a £25 payment for each seven-day period of cold weather.

You won't need to claim this payment, it will be paid automatically if you receive certain benefits, including Pension Credit, Income Support, income-based Jobseeker's Allowance, or Universal Credit that includes an element for heating costs.  

Learn more about the cold weather payment at www.gov.uk/cold-weather-payment.

Act now and get help

If you're worried about paying your energy bills, there's help at hand. You can:

• Contact your energy supplier: Speak with them directly to discuss payment plans or hardship schemes they might offer.
• Seek free, confidential advice: Citizens Advice offers a wealth of information and support. Call 0800 144 8844 or visit www.citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer/energy/
• Consider switching suppliers: MoneySavingExpert Martin Lewis’s rule of thumb is: “If you find a fix for less than the current (Oct to Dec) Price Cap, it's predicted you'll save over the year compared with staying on the Price Cap.” Visit www.moneysavingexpert.com/utilities.

And, remember, you're not alone. If you’re struggling, speak to our Customer Services Team at Habinteg Direct for help and advice on 0300 365 3100 or email direct@habinteg.org.uk.