The Ultimate Guide to the Warm Home Discount 2025-26: Everything You Need to Know
Published August 2025
What Is the Warm Home Discount?
The Warm Home Discount (WHD) is a UK government initiative that provides a one-off £150 credit directly applied to your electricity bill, or as a voucher if you’re on a prepayment meter. Its purpose is simple: to help households manage heating costs during the cold winter months.
For millions of families, pensioners, and low-income households, this support is a financial lifeline.
What’s New for 2025-26?
The government has expanded the scheme for this winter. Previously, around 3.4 million households received the discount. From 2025-26, that number has increased to about 6 million households.
The biggest change? The “high-energy-cost property” rule has been scrapped, which means an additional 2.7 million households now qualify.
Who Qualifies for the Warm Home Discount?
Core Group 1 (Automatic)
You’ll qualify automatically if:
– You receive the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit on 24 August 2025.
– Your name is on the electricity bill and your supplier is part of the scheme.
If this applies, you don’t need to do anything. You’ll get a letter confirming your eligibility between October and December 2025.
Broader Group (England & Wales)
This group covers low-income households on means-tested benefits such as Universal Credit, ESA, JSA, Housing Benefit, Tax Credits, and Income Support.
Previously, you had to apply, but now in England and Wales, most people in this category will be included automatically.
Scotland – Different Rules
In Scotland, Core Group 1 is automatic. However, if you’re in the Broader Group, you must apply directly via your energy supplier. Applications open in late August 2025 and work on a first-come, first-served basis.
Key Dates for the Warm Home Discount 2025-26