State Pensioners Urged to Claim £150 Energy Bill Discount

State pensioners in the UK are being encouraged to call a designated helpline to claim a £150 energy bill discount starting in January 2026. This one-off boost is part of the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero’s (DESNZ) Warm Home Discount Scheme, aimed at assisting eligible households during the winter months.

The £150 discount will be applied directly to the electricity bills of qualifying households, rather than being deposited into bank accounts. Eligibility varies based on residency, but the scheme is accessible to households in England, Wales, and Scotland. To qualify, state pensioners must be the named bill payer on their energy account and receive Pension Credit.

In England and Wales, the discount will automatically be applied to the bills of eligible pensioners. In contrast, households in Scotland must check their eligibility directly with their energy supplier, as the criteria can differ. Those who meet the qualifications should receive a letter confirming their eligibility between late October 2025 and early January 2026.

If pensioners do not receive a letter by early January, they are urged to contact the Warm Home Discount Scheme helpline before February 28, 2026. The DESNZ stated: “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.”

For pensioners in England and Wales, the discount will appear on their bills by March 31, 2026 without any additional action required, provided they have received a letter. If further information is necessary, instructions will be included in the letter, prompting recipients to call the helpline by the February deadline.

In Scotland, pensioners cannot apply for the discount through the Warm Home Discount Scheme. Instead, they need to reach out to their electricity supplier to verify eligibility and the application process. Eligible Scottish pensioners will also see the discount reflected on their bills by March 31, 2026.

The Warm Home Discount Scheme is an important initiative, reflecting the government’s commitment to support vulnerable populations during the colder months. Households are encouraged to check their eligibility to ensure they receive the financial assistance available to them.