Struggling households need more help with bills, energy industry says

Millions of households relying on four main benefits must take action by Sunday to ensure they receive a £150 payment aimed at easing winter energy costs. The government has reminded eligible recipients to confirm their names are listed on their energy bills by 23 August, as the deadline approaches. The Warm Home Discount, which provides a direct £150 payment to qualifying households, is available to those receiving means-tested benefits such as Housing Benefit, Income-related Employment and Support Allowance, Pension Credit, and Universal Credit in England and Wales. In Scotland, approximately 250,000 households will receive the payment automatically for the first time, provided they meet specific criteria related to disability, pensions, or family circumstances. The initiative is part of broader efforts to reduce the financial burden on vulnerable households during the upcoming winter. The government has announced plans to eliminate VAT on domestic electricity bills starting from 1 October, a move intended to provide additional cost-of-living relief. This follows the Prime Minister’s early policy decisions aimed at lowering energy costs for consumers. Households must ensure their names appear on their energy bills by the end of the week to qualify for automatic payments. Those using pre-payment meters will also need to confirm their account is registered under their name. A total of 24 energy suppliers have joined the scheme, enabling millions of customers to receive the £150 payment directly into their bank accounts. The expansion of the Warm Home Discount has brought the number of eligible households to around six million since the scheme was broadened last year. The government claims that almost a million more families with children benefited from the discount last winter, highlighting the growing reach of the program. Energy bills have already increased by 13% this summer, with another 4% rise anticipated later in the year. Despite these increases, the government continues to push for lower energy prices, with officials emphasizing that the removal of VAT from electricity bills will help ease the financial strain on households. Energy Secretary Miatta Fahnbulleh stated that the goal is to give families “breathing space” as the government works to bring down energy costs. She urged individuals to spread awareness among those who might be eligible and to check their energy bills promptly. Providers will rely on customers’ records as of Sunday 23 August to determine eligibility. It is recommended that anyone unsure about their status contact their energy supplier to make necessary adjustments. With the energy price cap set to rise by 4% in October, the timing of the rebate is crucial for many households facing rising living expenses. As the deadline nears, the government continues to stress the importance of verifying names on energy bills to ensure all eligible recipients can benefit from the support. The combined efforts of removing VAT and expanding the Warm Home Discount aim to offer much-needed relief during the coming months.